Temporal Depth in a Coherent Self and in Depersonalization: Theoretical Model

Multiple theoretical models of dissociative experiences have been formulated over the last century. These theories are clinically useful; however, it remains unclear if common factors exist in various pathways leading to an onset of dissociations. This article is the first in a series of papers, where we provide a framework for building an integrated model of dissociative experiences. This framework combines a first-principles-based perspective with dynamical systems perspective. We propose that temporal depth collapse can be a possible common factor in dissociative episodes of any etiology, moreover, we consider this factor to have causal power. In a follow-up paper, we will examine this model from the standpoint of clinical practice and neurobiological theories of dissociations. We will also provide empirical data in support of this model and present ideas for therapeutic applications.