Dissociation – News, Research and Analysis – The Conversation

Cesar Chavez became a national hero for his advocacy of farmworkers’ rights. Here he gives a talk at Boston University in April 1979. Ted Dully/The Boston Globe via Getty Images

March 23, 2026

Psychological toll of betrayal trauma may help explain why women kept silent for decades after alleged abuse by civil rights icon Cesar Chavez

Anne P. DePrince, University of Denver

A researcher answers the question many asked when they heard charges of abuse and rape against civil rights icon Cesar Chavez: Why didn’t the women speak earlier about the events from decades ago?

October 26, 2025

‘Wait with me until it’s over’: what teens want you to know about dissociation

Bronwyn Milkins, The Kids Research Institute Australia and Helen Milroy, The University of Western Australia

Dissociation is the brain’s way of protecting itself from overwhelming stress or emotion, and it’s often linked to trauma.

When you dissociate, you become so absorbed in an activity that you lose track of time. Marc Dufresne/Getty Images

August 5, 2022

Why it’s important to think about social media use as a form of dissociation, rather than addiction

Amanda Baughan, University of Washington

Dissociation can be a healthy part of cognitive functioning, provided it doesn’t get in the way of your goals.

Harvey Weinstein leaves for the day during his trial on charges of rape and sexual assault, in New York, Jan. 28, 2020. AP Photo/Craig Ruttle

January 30, 2020

Harvey Weinstein’s ‘false memory’ defense is not backed by science

Anne P. DePrince, University of Denver and Joan M. Cook, Yale University

As women began to come forward with experiences of rape and abuse, backlash came forward too. The notion of ‘false memory’ developed to explain away assault. Here’s why that notion itself is untrue.

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