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Bennett G. Braun’s research - with full bibliography
Bennett G. Braun’s research (full bibliography at the bottom of the page)
copied with permission
(with information about the Burgus v. Braun legal case)
Bennett Braun was a famous doctor that worked in
the field of dissociation and trauma in the 1980’s and early 1990’s. He
created the BASK Model of Dissociation, a model for understanding and
healing dissociation that is still used by some today.
The BASK Model of Dissociation Bennett G. Braun,
M.D. ABSTRACT The BASK model conceptualizes the complex phenomenology of
dissociation along with dimensions of Behavior, Affect, Sensation, and
Knowledge. The process of dissociation itself, hypnosis, and the
clinical mental disorders that constitute the dissociative disorders are
described in terms of this model, and illustrated.
https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1276/Diss_1_1_2_OCR_rev.pdf
Psychiatry Research
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 1985, Pages 253-260
Psychiatry Research
Dissociative states in multiple personality disorder: A quantitative study
Edward K.Silberman
Frank W.Putnam Herbert Weingartner Bennett G. Braun Robert M.Post
https://doi.org/10.1016/0165-1781(85)90062-9
Multiple personality disorder (MPD) patients may experience themselves
as several discrete alter personalities who do not share consciousness
or memories with one another. In this study, we asked whether MPD
patients are different from controls in their ability to learn and
remember, and their ability to compartmentalize information. MPD
patients were not found to differ from controls in overall memory level.
Learning of information by MPD patients in disparate personality states
did not result in greater compartmentalization than that of which
control subjects were capable. However, there were qualitative
differences between the cognitive performance of patients and that of
controls attempting to role-play alter personalities. Our results
suggest that simple confabulation is not an adequate model for the MPD
syndrome, and we consider a possible role for state-dependent learning
in the phenomenology of MPD.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0165178185900629
Intellectual functioning of inpatients with dissociative identity disorder and dissociative disorder not otherwise specified.
Rossini, E. D., Schwartz, D. R., & Braun, B. G. (1996). Intellectual
functioning of inpatients with dissociative identity disorder and
dissociative disorder not otherwise specified. Journal of Nervous and
Mental Disease, 184(5), 289–294.
https://doi.org/10.1097/00005053-199605000-00004
Abstract
Examined the intellectual functioning of 50 inpatients with multiple
personality disorder (MPD) and 55 inpatients with dissociative disorder
(DSD) not otherwise specified using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence
Scale–Revised (WAIS–R) as part of a comprehensive research protocol. No
significant intellectual differences were found between MPD and DSD Ss
on any major IQ summary score or on any of the age-adjusted empirical
factor scores. A significant subsample of MPD Ss manifested abnormal
intertest scatter on the WAIS-R verbal subtests, and this variability
was attributed to subtle neuropsychological deficits on the
Memory/Distractibility factor. Results suggest that dissociative
patients might need to be evaluated for attention deficit disorder in
addition to the range of dissociative symptoms in a comprehensive
evaluation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1996-00445-004
Rorschach Indicators of Multiple Personality Disorder Sep 1992 SUSAN M. LABOTT. FRANK LEAVITT. BENNETT G. BRAUN, ROBERTA G. SACHS
The increase in reported cases of Multiple Personality Disorder
underscores a great need to differentiate clearly this from other
psychiatric disorders and from simulation of Multiple Personality
Disorder. Two sets of Rorschach signs have been advanced as clinical
markers by their developers, namely Barach and also Wagner, Allison, and
Wagner.
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.1009.5788&rep=rep1&type=pdf
Dissociation : Volume 10, No. 2, p. 120-124 : Frequency of EEG abnormalities in a large dissociative population
Article Jun 1997
Bennett G. Braun David R. Schwartz Howard M. Kravitz Jordan Waxman
Frequency of EEG abnormalities in a large dissociative population
Article Jun 1997 B.G. Braun D.R. Schwartz H.M. Kravitz J. Waxman
A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine the frequency of
electroencephalographic abnormalities, particularly those suggesting
temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), among patients with dissociative
disorders.
Factor analytic investigation of the WAIS-R among patients with dissociative psychopathology
Article Mar 1997 D.R. Schwartz E.D. Rossini B.G. Braun G.M. Stein
The factor structure of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised
(WAIS-R) was examined among 133 participants diagnosed with a
dissociative disorder.
Patterns of Dissociation in Clinical and Nonclinical Samples
Dec 1996 FRANK W. PUTNAM Eve B Carlson Colin A. Ross BENNETT G. BRAUN
Research has consistently found elevated mean dissociation scores in particular diagnostic groups.
Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale in screening for Multiple Personality Disorder: A multicenter study
Article Aug 1993 Eve B Carlson F W Putnam Colin A. Ross B G Braun
The Dissociative Experiences Scale has proved a reliable and valid
instrument to measure dissociation in many groups, but its capacity to
distinguish patients with multiple personality disorder from patients
with other psychiatric disorders has not yet been conclusively tested.
Psychopathology, Hypnotizability, and dissociation Article Dec 1992 E J Frischholz L S Lipman B G Braun
R G Sachs
The purpose of the study was to replicate and extend previous findings
regarding the hypnotizability of different clinical groups. The authors
compared the differential hypnotizability of four psychiatric
groups–patients with dissociative disorders (N = 17), schizophrenia (N =
13), mood disorders (N = 13), and anxiety disorders (N = 14)
Bupropion-Associated Mania in a Patient with HIV Infection Nov 1992 Christopher Glenn Fichtner BENNETT G. BRAUN
Construct Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale: II. Its Relationship to Hypnotizability
Oct 1992 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Roberta G. Sachs Jim Pasquotto
Undergraduates (n = 311) who volunteered to participate in an experiment
on “Hypnotizability and Personality” filled out several personality
questionnaires (including the Dissociative Experiences Scale; DES), were
administered the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility
(HGSHS), and completed a self-rating of hypnotizability.
Suggested Posthypnotic Amnesia in Psychiatric Patients and Normals Aug 1992 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Laurie S. Lipman Roberta Sachs
The present study examined both quantitative and qualitative
hypnotizability differences among four psychiatric patient groups
(dissociative disorder (n = 17), schizophrenic (n = 13), mood disorder
(n = 14), and anxiety disorder (n = 14) patients), and normals (college
students (n = 63).
Construct validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES): I.
The relationship between the DES and other self-report measures of DES.
Dec 1991 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Roberta G. Sachs David
R. Schwartz
Administered the DES, the Tellegen Absorption Scale (ABS), the
Perceptual Alteration Scale (PAS), the Yellen Ambiguity Intolerance
Scale (YAIS), and the Jenkins Activity Schedule to 311 undergraduates.
The DES total score (and 3 DES factor scores) correlated with the ABS
and PAS and YAIS overall scores.
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.1009.5788&rep=rep1&type=pdf
Historical reliability: a key to differentiating populations among patients presenting signs of multiple personality disorder. Nov 1991 FRANK LEAVITT BENNETT BRAUN
The clinical value of inconsistencies in the historical data of patients
presenting with signs of multiple personality disorder was assessed.
Three major inconsistencies in historical data were identified in 23
patients who were admitted to a Dissociative Disorders Program with a
diagnosis of Multiple Personality Disorder.
Patients reporting ritual abuse in childhood: A clinical syndrome. Report of 37 cases
Feb 1991 Walter C. Young Roberta G. Sachs Bennett G. Braun Ruth T. Watkins
Thirty-seven adult dissociative disorder patients who reported ritual
abuse in childhood by satanic cults are described. Patients came from a
variety of separate clinical settings and geographical locations and
reported a number of similar abuses. The most frequently reported types
of ritual abuse are outlined, and a clinical syndrome is presented.
Construct validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES): I.
The relation between the des and other self-report measures of
dissociation Jan 1991 E.J. Frischholz B.G. Braun R.G. Sachs J. Pasquotto
The Dissociative Experiences Scale: Further replication and validation
Sep 1990 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Roberta G. Sachs
Administered the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) of E. M. Bernstein
and F. W. Putnam (see record 1987-14407-001) to 259 college students,
33 patients with multiple personality disorder (MPD), and 29 patients
with a dissociative disorder not otherwise specified (DDNOS). The
interrater reliability for the DES scoring procedure was excellent.
Hypnosis and Eyewitness Testimony Feb 1986 Patrick A Tuite Bennett G Braun Edward J Frischholz
DISSOCIATIVE PSYCHOPATHOLOGY David R. Schwartz Edward Rossini Bennett G. Braun M. Stein
The factor structure of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised
(WAIS-R) was examined among 133 participants diagnosed with a
dissociative disorder . The results of two and three factor orthogonal
solutions with varimax rotation were obtained .
Treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder
Bennett G. Braun
Disciplined doctor licensed in Montana – Associated Press – October 16, 2003 By Bob Anez
After legal attacks in the 1990’s, he agreed to a two-year suspension of
his medical license in October 1999 and was given five years probation
after accusations by a former patient. Braun had stated that he
didn’t contest his license suspension and $5,000 fine because he was
exhausted financially, emotionally and physically. He said he spent about $500,000 to initially fight the disciplinary case.
Candidate accused by former patient by Thomas R. O’Donnell – Des
Moines Register – 10/28/98 – “A former Iowan who won a $10.6 million
settlement from a Chicago hospital and two psychiatrists said the
diagnosis of multiple personalities and repressed memories of satanic
cults that led to her lawsuit originated with a West Des Moines clinical
social worker. But the social worker, Ann-Marie Baughman, now a Polk
County legislative candidate, said that when she started counseling
Patricia Burgus in 1982, Burgus was a troubled woman who was threatening
to kill herself and others. Burgus…also was displaying behavior that
Baughman could not understand. “It was the physical changes more than
just the verbal expressions of what she was telling me” that led Baughman to conclude she was seeing multiple personalities. The “muscles in her face would all relax . . . and she would just look different. It was just the eeriest thing….But suggestions
that Braun somehow planted the horrific memories in Burgus’ head are
wrong, Baughman said, because they started surfacing during her sessions
with Burgus in Des Moines….In the settlement, reached last
fall after six years of litigation, neither the hospital nor the
psychiatrists, Braun and Elva Poznanski, admitted fault. Braun has said
his insurance company settled over his objections.”
Here’s a summary of the research on Burgus v. Braun et al that was
presented by a researcher at the 2002 International Society for the
Study of Dissociation conference in Baltimore
In 1993 the Burgus family filed a malpractice lawsuit against
Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center, Dr. Elva Poznanski, the
boys” psychiatrist, and Dr. Bennett Braun, Pat’s psychiatrist…Before her
hospitalization at Rush in 1983, Pat spent most days in bed in with the curtains drawn, unable to care for herself. She threatened to kill herself and others.
Her husband came home for lunch to make sure the boys were fed. She
became convinced that the doctor who did her tubal ligation had
implanted a fetus during the surgery. She approached mothers of infant
daughters, asking them if they would trade their daughter for her infant
son, Mikey. Pat entered Rush diagnosed with multiple personality
disorder and borderline personality disorder. Upon admission Pat was
agitated and incoherent. During her first month on the unit and
before she was placed on meds, Pat told staff “I’m switching
[personalities] out of control today. I’m doing so much switching today I
can’t believe it.” Pat testified that the rapid switching
decreased over time as her medications were increased….Other patients
said they recognized her from her participation in cult-related criminal
activities. At the time of her release from Rush in 1987 Pat was more
stable and integrated. Did Pat’s psychiatrist implant false memories as
Pat has claimed? On January 17, 1997, a defense attorney asked Pat about
the source of her memories. Pat repeatedly conceded that she had
originated all the memories herself. Her psychiatrist did not implant
any memories. He had simply passed on to her what the other patients had
reported.” https://ritualabuse.us/smart-conference/2010-conference/the-move-from-blame-the-victim-to-blame-the-helper/
Bibliography
Braun, B.G., (1986). Treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder. American Psychiatric Association Publishing; 1st edition.
Braun, B. G. (1979, October). Hypnosis creates multiple personality: Myth or reality? Paper presented at the 31st Annual Meeting of the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, Denver.
Braun, B. G. (1980). Hypnosis for multiple personality. In H. J. Wain (Ed.), Clinical hypnosis in medicine (pp. 209–218). Chicago: Yearbook Medical Publishers.
Braun, B. G. (1982). Multiple personality: Form, function and phenomena. Privately printed and distributed.
Braun, B. G. (1983). Psychophysiological phenomena in multiple personality and hypnosis. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 26(2), 124–137. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.1983.10404152
Abstract: Demonstrates similarities in psychophysiologic phenomena
found in multiple personality disorder (MPD), individuals using
hypnosis, and others who did not use hypnosis. The use of hypnosis is
outlined for cases involving allergic responses, dermatologic reactions,
the automatic nervous system, the CNS, seizure disorders, and pain
control. Eight case vignettes featuring MPD patients and citations of
related phenomena from the hypnosis literature are presented. Hypnotic
healing mechanisms and possible unifying concepts for these parallels
are discussed. It is suggested that a form of hypnosis/autohypnosis may
be a common denominator underlying these phenomena. (90 ref) (PsycINFO
Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Braun, B. G. (1984a). Hypnosis creates multiple personality: Myth or reality? International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 32(2), 191–197. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207148408416009
Abstract: Since the 19th century, multiple personality has been
associated with hysteria and hypnosis. The myth that hypnosis can create
multiple personality is examined through a review of studies that have
suggested or implied a casual link between hypnosis and multiple
personality. While it is possible that personality fragments can appear
under hypnosis, there is no evidence that personalities with separate
life histories and a full range of affect can be created with hypnosis.
Such personality fragments typically appear only for a limited time and
are readily reintegrated. It is concluded that hypnosis is a valuable
tool in diagnosing and treating multiple personalities. (French, German
& Spanish abstracts)
Braun, B. G. (1984b). Towards a theory of multiple personality and other dissociative phenomena. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Symposium on multiple personality. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 7, 171–194.
Kluft, R.P., Braun, B. G., & Sachs, R.G. (1984). Multiple personality disorder, intrafamilial abuse, and family psychiatry. International Journal of Family Psychiatry, 5(4), 303–313.
Lipman, L. S., Braun, B. G., & Frischholz, E. J. (1984). Hypnotizability and multiple personality disorder: Part I, overall hypnotic responsivity.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1984: Proceedings of the
First International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative
States (p. 100). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.
Frischholz, E. J., Lipman, E. S., & Braun, B. G. (1984). Hypnosis in multiple personality disorder: Part II, special hypnotic phenomena.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1984: Proceedings of the
First International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative
States (p. 101). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.
Horevitz, R. & Braun, B.G. (1984). Are Multiple Personalities Borderline?: An Analysis of 33 Cases. Psychiatric Clinics of North America 7(1): 69-87. DOI:10.1016/S0193-953X(18)30781-0
Abstract: The authors detail their investigation into the positive
relationship between borderline personality and multiple personality and
present their finding that although borderline personality disorder is
very prevalent in patients with multiple personality disorder, it is not
universal and is a separate and distinct disorder.
Braun, B. G. & Sachs, R. G. (1985). The development of multiple personality disorder. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Childhood antecedents of multiple personality (pp. 37–64). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.
Braun, B. G. (1985a). The transgenerational incidence of dissociation and multiple personality disorder. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Childhood antecedents of multiple personality (pp. 127–150). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.
Braun, B. G. (1985b). Dissociation: Behavior, affect, sensation, knowledge.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1985: Proceedings of the
Second International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative
States (p. 6). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.
Silberman, E. K., Putnam, F. W., Weingartner, H., Braun, B. G., & Post, R. M. (1985). Dissociative states in multiple personality disorder: a quantitative study. Psychiatry research, 15(4), 253–260. https://doi.org/10.1016/0165-1781(85)90062-9
Abstract: Multiple personality disorder (MPD) patients may
experience themselves as several discrete alter personalities who do not
share consciousness or memories with one another. In this study, we
asked whether MPD patients are different from controls in their ability
to learn and remember, and their ability to compartmentalize
information. MPD patients were not found to differ from controls in
overall memory level. Learning of information by MPD patients in
disparate personality states did not result in greater
compartmentalization than that of which control subjects were capable.
However, there were qualitative differences between the cognitive
performance of patients and that of controls attempting to role-play
alter personalities. Our results suggest that simple confabulation is
not an adequate model for the MPD syndrome, and we consider a possible
role for state-dependent learning in the phenomenology of MPD.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0165178185900629
Braun, B. G. & Sachs, R. G. (1985). The development of multiple personality disorder: Predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Childhood antecedents of multiple personality (pp. 37–64). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.
Braun, B. G., & Gray, G. T. (1986). Report on the 1985 questionnaire on multiple personality disorder.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1986: Proceedings of the
Third International Conference on Multiple Personality /Dissociative
States (p. 111). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.
Sachs, R. G., & Braun, B. G. (1986). The use of sand trays with the MPD patient.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1986: Proceedings of the
Third International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative
States (p. 61). Chicago: Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.
Schultz, R., Braun, B. G., & Kluft, R. P. (1986). The interface
between multiple personality disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1986: Proceedings of the
Third International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative
States (p. 111). Chicago: Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.
Braun, B. G. (1986a). Dissociation: An overview. Annual Meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, Washington, DC.
Braun, B. G. (1986b). Issues in the psychotherapy of multiple personality disorder. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Treatment of multiple personality disorder (pp. 1–28). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.
Barkin, R., Braun, B. G., & Kluft, R. P. (1986). The dilemma of drug therapy for multiple personality disorder. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Treatment of multiple personality disorder (pp. 107–132). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.
Braun, B. & Horevitz, R. (1986). Hypnosis and Psychotherapy. Psychiatric Annals 16(2):81-86
DOI:10.3928/0048-5713-19860201-07
Abstract: Differentiates between hypnotic inductions, trance
development and deepening procedures, and the use of hypnotic techniques
independent of hypnotic trance. It is argued that hypnosis can be
applied in any psychotherapy framework and utilizes strengths and
capacities of the patient that might not otherwise be accessible. The
author describes how a patient can be prepared for hypnosis and the
utility of hypnotic training before formal treatment is begun. Potential
psychotherapeutic applications of hypnosis in memory enhancement,
dealing with selective amnesia, and achieving volitional control of
physiological processes are discussed, and the case of a 36-yr-old woman
is presented.
Tuite, P.A., Braun, B.G., & Frischholz, E.J. (1986). Hypnosis and Eyewitness Testimony. Psychiatric Annals, 16, 91-95.
Braun, B. G. (1988a). The BASK (behavior, affect, sensation, knowledge) model of dissociation. Dissociation, 1 (1), 4–23.
ABSTRACT: The BASK model conceptualizes the complex phenomenology of
dissociation along with dimensions of Behavior, Affect, Sensation, and
Knowledge. The process of dissociation itself, hypnosis, and the
clinical mental disorders that constitute the dissociative disorders are
described in terms of this model, and illustrated.
Braun, B. G. (1988b). The BASK model of dissociation: Part II: Treatment. Dissociation, 1 (2), 16–23.
ABSTRACT: This article is a continuation of the BASK Model
ofDissociation: Part 1, which discussed the phenomena and theory of
dissociation. It uses the previously described BASK Model (Behavior,
Affea, Sensation, Knowledge levels within a time continuum) and applies
it to treatment. Since treatment is a dynamic concept and knowledge is a
static term, BASK is changed to BA TS, wherein the active term
“thought” is substituted for “knowledge. ” The interrelationship of the
various dimensions of the BATS model is demonstrated and described. The
BASK format is used to describe how a behavior, affect, thought and/or
sensation clue is used to track down and synthesize the BASK/BATS
components in psychotherapy through work with different personalities
and/or fragments. A main thesis is that congruence of the BASK/BATS
levels across the space/time continuum is required for healthy
functioning. It is hoped from this discussion that the reader will get a
sufficient understanding the Sheridan Road Hospital. of the practical
use of the BASK model and that he/she might apply it to her/his school
and practice of psychotherapy.
Sachs, R. G.., Braun, B. G., & Shepp, E. (1988). Technique for planned abreactions with MPD patients.
In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1988: Proceedings of the
Fifth International Conference on Multiple Personality /Dissociative
States (p. 85). Chicago: Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.
Braun, B. (1989). Psychotherapy of the Survivor of Incest With a Dissociative Disorder.
Psychiatric Clinics of North America Volume 12, Issue 2, June 1989, Pages 307-324
Abstract: The treatment of the survivor of incest who suffers from a
dissociative disorder is probably somewhat more difficult than that of
other survivors of incest because for these others the material is more
readily available. Also the patient with DD was probably more severely
abused or the dissociative defense would not have been needed. This too
makes therapy difficult, especially in that most necessary step: the
development of trust and rapport. Despite these problems, there is a
very good chance for a successful therapy that will bring the
dissociated material back into the main stream of consciousness with a
“here and now” appropriate perspective. This can be accomplished through
proper diagnosis, good theoretics grounding, and therapy including
psychotherapy with appropriate limit setting and the judicious use of
medication. This article presents a summary of the BASK model of
dissociation and two other models and gives ideas on how these models
may be applied to the understanding of the etiology of dissociative
disorders and their treatment. Case examples are used to illustrate
successful treatment. Although treatment of incest survivors with
dissociative disorders is difficult, success can be anticipated, and the
rewards to the patient and the satisfaction for the therapist are
great.
Schultz, R. G., Braun, B. G., & Kluft, R. P. (1989). Multiple personality disorder: Phenomenology of selected variables in comparison to major depression. Dissociation, 2, 45–51.
Abstract: Various findings from a retrospective survey of 355
multiple personality disorder (MPD) patients and 235 major depression
patients, who served as a comparison group, are discussed. The survey
was completed by 448 independent clinicians, 142 of whom contributed
information on both an MPD and a major depression patient. The study
confirms recent findings in the literature that MPD is not a rare
disorder, its sufferers include a preponderance of females, and it is
highly correlated with childhood trauma, especially sexual and physical
abuse. In addition, the study indicates that clinicians who diagnose MPD
perceive clinical phenomena in a manner similar to those clinicians who
have not yet made this diagnosis.
Braun, B. G. (1989). Dissociation as a sequela to incest.
In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Symposium on psychotherapy of the survivor of
incest with a dissociative disorder}. Psychiatric Clinics of North
America, 12, 307–324.
Braun, B.. (1990). Multiple Personality Disorder: An Overview. The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association. 44. 971-6. 10.5014/ajot.44.11.971.
Abstract: Multiple personality disorder is understood today as
chronic dissociative psychopathology that most often develops in
response to severe abuse in childhood. The dissociative component is a
manifestation of a defense mechanism out of control. The person with a
biopsychological capacity to dissociate flees inward from overwhelming
abuse or feared abuse. When continuing abuse perpetuates dissociations
and they are chained by common affective themes, the foundations of
multiple personality disorder are laid. Although the disorder has its
roots in childhood, most patients are not diagnosed with this condition
until 20 to 50 years of age. Many have received several prior, erroneous
diagnoses of mental or physical disorders or both over a period of 7 or
more years. Failure of diagnosis is an indication of the multiple
factors that contribute to making this a covert disorder. Diagnosis and
management begin at the same place: the establishment of trust and
therapeutic alliance between patient and therapist.
Frischholz, E. J., Braun, B. G., Sachs, R. G., Hopkins, L., et al. (1990). The Dissociative Experiences Scale: Further replication and validation. Dissociation: Progress in the Dissociative Disorders, 3(3), 151–153.
Abstract: Administered the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) of
E. M. Bernstein and F. W. Putnam (see record 1987-14407-001) to 259
college students, 33 patients with multiple personality disorder (MPD),
and 29 patients with a dissociative disorder not otherwise specified
(DDNOS). The interrater reliability for the DES scoring procedure was
excellent. The test–retest reliability of DES scores was also excellent,
which suggests that DES total scores are temporally stable and similar
in absolute value across testings. The internal consistency of DES
scores was very high. Both MPD and DDNOS Ss earned significantly higher
DES scores than did students. MPD Ss earned significantly higher DES
scores than DDNOS Ss. A DES cut-off score of 45–55 will maximize the
probability of correctly classifying normal Ss from dissociative
disorder patients while minimizing the rates of false positive and false
negative errors.
Braun, B. G. (1990). Unusual medication regimens in the treatment of dissociative disorder patients: Part I. Noradrenergic agents. Dissociation, 3(3), 144–150.
Abstract: Describes the use of the noradrenergic agents propranolol
and clonidine in an experimental setting to reduce switching and anxiety
in dissociative disorder patients, making them better candidates for
psychotherapy. The rationale for this use (unapproved by the Food and
Drug Administration) of the drugs is based on 2 theories of emotion. It
is hypothesized further that the mechanisms proposed by the 2 theories
are reinforcing of one another via classical conditioning in the
production and reinforcement of chronic, severe anxiety responses. The
effect of propranolol and clonidine can complement the effect of
benzodiazepines in patients with dissociative disorder. In the protocol
described, propranolol or clonidine is sometimes used at ultrahigh
doses.
Leavitt, F., & Braun, B. (1991). Historical reliability: a key to differentiating populations among patients presenting signs of multiple personality disorder. Psychological reports, 69(2), 499–510. https://doi.org/10.2466/pr0.1991.69.2.499
Abstract: The clinical value of inconsistencies in the historical
data of patients presenting with signs of multiple personality disorder
was assessed. Three major inconsistencies in historical data were
identified in 23 patients who were admitted to a Dissociative Disorders
Program with a diagnosis of Multiple Personality Disorder. This group
showed psychological disturbance that was quite different from 23
patients with a similar discharge diagnosis but who did not exhibit
inconsistencies in history. The former group reported less psychological
disturbance and fewer dissociative experiences. Patients who are less
credible by virtue of inconsistencies in their historical reports may
belong to a different diagnostic group. The findings point to the need
to chart history carefully in authenticating genuine cases.
Frischholz, E.J., Braun, B.G., Sachs, R.G., Schwartz, D.R., Lewis,
J., Shaeffer, D., Westergaard, C. & Pasquotto, J. (1991). Construct
validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES): I. The relation
between the DES and other self-report measures of dissociation. Dissociation: Vol. 4 (4), p. 185-188
Abstract: The present study attempted to expand the construct
validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) by comparing it to:
(a) other self-report measures of dissociation (e.g., the Tellegen
Absorption Scale [TAS] and the Perceptual Alteration Scale [PAS]); (b)
the construct of “ambiguity intolerance” (assessed by the Yellen
Ambiguity Intolerance Scale [YAIS]); and (c) the Jenkins Activity
Schedule (JAS: which measures the degree of Type A behavior). Three
hundred and eleven undergraduates participated in an experiment on
“Hypnotizability and Personality, ” and filled out the DES TAS, PAS,
YAIS, and JAS. The DES total score (and three DES factor scores)
correlated with the TAS and PAS in the range of .24 – .52 (all
correlations were significant at the .001 level, two-tailed).
Furthermore, the DES total score (and the three DES factor scores)
correlated significantly with the YAIS overall score (r’s ranged from
.22 – .24, all p’s < .001), but did not correlate significantly with
the JAS (r’s ranged from -.03 – .04, ns). The findings suggest that DES
scores (i.e., total scores and each of the three DES factor scores) show
good levels of convergent validity as they correlate significantly with
other self-report measures of dissociation. However, the
intercorrelations were not high enough to consider the different
dissociation measures as interchangeable. Furthermore, subjects
reporting high levels of dissociative experiences also reported higher
levels of ambiguity intolerance. However, no significant association was
observed between DES scores and the Type A behavior pattern.
Young, W.C., Sachs, R.G., Braun, B.G., & Watkins, R.T. (1991). Patients reporting ritual abuse in childhood: A clinical syndrome. Report of 37 cases. Child Abuse and Neglect, 15, 181-189.
Abstract: Thirty-seven adult dissociative disorder patients who
reported ritual abuse in childhood by satanic cults are described.
Patients came from a variety of separate clinical settings and
geographical locations and reported a number of similar abuses. The most
frequently reported types of ritual abuse are outlined, and a clinical
syndrome is presented which includes dissociative states with satanic
overtones, severe post-traumatic stress disorder, survivor guilt,
bizarre self abuse, unusual fears, sexualization of sadistic impulses,
indoctrinated beliefs, and substance abuse. Questions relating to issues
of reliability, credibility and verfiability are addressed in depth,
and the findings and implications are discussed.
Fichtner, C., & Braun, B. (1992). Bupropion-Associated Mania in a Patient with HIV Infection. Journal of clinical psychopharmacology. 12. 366-7. 10.1097/00004714-199210000-00017.
Frischholz, E.J., Lipman, L.S., Braun, B.G., & Sachs, R.G. (1992). Psychopathology, hypnotizability, and dissociation. American Journal of Psychiatry 149(11):1521-5
DOI:10.1176/ajp.149.11.1521
Abstract: The purpose of the study was to replicate and extend
previous findings regarding the hypnotizability of different clinical
groups. The authors compared the differential hypnotizability of four
psychiatric groups–patients with dissociative disorders (N = 17),
schizophrenia (N = 13), mood disorders (N = 13), and anxiety disorders
(N = 14)–and one normal group of college students (N = 63).
Hypnotizability was assessed by four different measures: the eye roll
sign and the induction score of the Hypnotic Induction Profile, the
Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale, Form C, and two self-ratings of
hypnotizability. As predicted, dissociative disorder patients had
significantly higher hypnotizability scores on all measures than all
other groups. Schizophrenic patients, on the other hand, had
significantly lower scores than normal subjects on the eye roll sign and
induction score but not on the other measures of hypnotizability. Some
other unpredicted between-group differences were also found.
Nevertheless, despite the between-group differences, the
intercorrelations between the various hypnotizability measures within
the normal group were very similar to those observed in the combined
patient groups. The findings suggest that routine hypnotizability
assessment may be useful in the differential diagnosis of patients with
dissociative disorders.
Fichtner, C. G., & Braun, B. G. (1992). Bupropion-associated mania in a patient with HIV infection. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 12(5), 366–367. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004714-199210000-00017
Abstract: Presents the case of a 50-yr-old man with HIV infection
and a history of hospitalization for depression with suicidality, as
well as mania in association with fluoxetine and bupropion treatment.
The case shares several features of one previously reported by J. K.
Zubieta and M. A. Demitrack (see record 1992-10254-001).
Labott, S. M., Leavitt, F., Braun, B. G., & Sachs, R. G. (1992). Rorschach indicators of multiple personality disorder. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 75(1), 147-158.
The increase in reported cases of Multiple Personality Disorder
underscores a great need to differentiate clearly this from other
psychiatric disorders and from simulation of Multiple Personality
Disorder. Two sets of Rorschach signs have been advanced as clinical
markers by their developers, namely Barach and also Wagner, Allison, and
Wagner.
Abstract: The increase in reported cases of Multiple Personality
Disorder underscores a great need to differentiate clearly this from
other psychiatric disorders and from simulation of Multiple Personality
Disorder. Two sets of Rorschach signs have been advanced as clinical
markers by their developers, namely, Barach and also Wagner, Allison,
and Wagner. As the Wagner signs are prevalent in much of the research on
Rorschach responses in Multiple Personality Disorder, the purpose of
the present study was to evaluate these signs using Wagner’s
administration and the resulting Rorschach protocols of 16 Multiple
Personality Disorder patients and 16 psychiatric controls. Analysis
indicated that this system was deficient in correctly classifying these
32 protocols. A new marker, the Splitting Response, emerged, however,
which was more useful. This response, in combination with at least one
Dissociative response, produced an accuracy rate of 94%. These new
criteria may be useful aids in the detection of Multiple Personality
Disorder from Rorschach protocols. Replication is urged.
Fichtner, C., Horevitz, R., & Braun, B. (1993). Fluoxetine in depersonalization disorder. The American journal of psychiatry. 149. 1750-1.
Abstract: Presents a case history of a 73-yr-old man with
depersonalization disorder who responded favorably to treatment with
fluoxetine, a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. S reported a history of
panic attacks and feelings of unreality. Fluoxetine, 20 mg/day, was
prescribed, and in 4 wks S reported improvement, which continued for 8
mo.
Carlson, E., Putnam, F.,Ross, C., Torem, M., Coons, P., Dill, D., Loewenstein, R. & Braun, B. (1993). Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale in screening for Multiple Personality Disorder: A multicenter study. The American journal of psychiatry. 150. 1030-6. 10.1176/ajp.150.7.1030.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The Dissociative Experiences Scale has proved a
reliable and valid instrument to measure dissociation in many groups,
but its capacity to distinguish patients with multiple personality
disorder from patients with other psychiatric disorders has not yet been
conclusively tested. METHOD: A discriminant analysis was performed to
classify 1,051 subjects as having or not having multiple personality
disorder. Another discriminant analysis was performed on a subgroup of
883 subjects more closely representing patients in a typical psychiatric
facility in terms of base rates of dissociative disorders. A cutoff
score of 30 was also used to classify subjects, and Bayes’s theorem,
which allows for the calculation of the positive predictive value and
the negative predictive value of a screening test, was applied. RESULTS:
According to discriminant analysis of the total study group, the
scale’s sensitivity was 76% and its specificity was also 76%; according
to discriminant analysis of the more representative subgroup, the
scale’s sensitivity was 76% and its specificity was 85%. Use of the
cutoff score of 30 produced similar results. Results of the application
of Bayes’s theorem showed that 17% of the subjects scoring 30 or higher
would actually have multiple personality disorder and 99% of those
scoring less than 30 would not have multiple personality disorder.
CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that the Dissociative Experiences
Scale performs quite well as a screening instrument to identify subjects
with multiple personality disorder. In addition, the consistency of
responses to scale items across centers indicates that the symptoms
reported by patients with multiple personality disorder are highly
similar across diverse geographic centers. This consistency supports the
reliability and validity of the diagnosis of multiple personality
disorder across centers.
Braun, B.G. (1993). Multiple Personality Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Similarities and Differences
In: Wilson, J.P., Raphael, B. (eds), International Handbook of
Traumatic Stress Syndromes. The Plenum Series on Stress and Coping. PP.
35-47. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-2820-3_3
Abstract: Multiple personality disorder (MPD) and posttraumatic
stress disorder (PTSD) were formulated in medical consciousness at about
the same time that modern psychiatry was being molded by its Age of
Giants. During this period of 1880 to 1920, MPD was pulled from its
millennia-old identification with demonology and possession into the
rational spheres of psychology (Ellenberger, 1970). The “cowardice” of
warriors who relived scenes of terror in sweating nightmares acquired a
new etiology in the trenches of World War I, namely, “shell shock,”
later to become the “combat fatigue” of World War II, and the PTSD of
today. All too often throughout history the MPD and PTSD patient shared
similar fates: isolation or death for the “possessed,” rejection or
execution for the craven. Until recently, however, it was not realized
that MPD and PTSD had two similarities in etiology and phemonenology:
origin in exposure of the victim to shattering psychological trauma—in
childhood in the instance of MPD, in later life in PTSD—and the
subsequent need for the person to dissociate as a coping mechanism.
Fichtner, C., Jobe, T. & Braun, B. (1994). Possible therapeutic window for serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The Journal of clinical psychiatry. 55. 36-8.
Abstract: Comments on JW Cain’s (see record 1993-10662-001) and
other investigators’ findings of a therapeutic window for some serotonin
(5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) reuptake inhibitors and expresses concern
about the applicability of a therapeutic window for fluoxetine across
larger numbers of patients. How the clinician decides whether to raise
or lower fluoxetine is discussed.
Fichtner, C. & Braun, B. (1995). Hyperphagia and Weight Loss during Fluoxetine Treatment. The Annals of pharmacotherapy. 28. 1350-2. 10.1177/106002809402801205.
Abstract: To report the unusual coincidence of weight loss with
increased appetite and food intake in a patient treated for depression
on two separate occasions with fluoxetine. A 27-year-old woman
experienced a modest weight loss during treatment for depression with
fluoxetine. The weight loss was associated with a reported increase in
daily caloric intake and consumption of a greater proportion of dietary
fat than usual for the patient. The same patient was treated again with
fluoxetine more than a year later and again experienced weight loss
associated with an increase in appetite, caloric intake, and dietary fat
consumption. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor
that often is associated with a modest weight loss when used for the
treatment of depression, although it also has been reported to have the
opposite effects of weight gain and hyperphagia in some patients. The
effects on weight usually are assumed to be the result of primary
effects on appetite, but the discrepancy between the appetite and weight
changes in this case challenges the applicability of that assumption in
all cases. The effects of fluoxetine on appetite and weight may be
mediated by partially distinct mechanisms and might conceivably involve a
direct metabolic effect in some patients.
Rossini, E. D., Schwartz, D. R., & Braun, B. G. (1996). Intellectual functioning of inpatients with dissociative identity disorder and dissociative disorder not otherwise specified. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 184(5), 289–294. https://doi.org/10.1097/00005053-199605000-00004
Abstract: Examined the intellectual functioning of 50 inpatients
with multiple personality disorder (MPD) and 55 inpatients with
dissociative disorder (DSD) not otherwise specified using the Wechsler
Adult Intelligence Scale–Revised (WAIS–R) as part of a comprehensive
research protocol. No significant intellectual differences were found
between MPD and DSD Ss on any major IQ summary score or on any of the
age-adjusted empirical factor scores. A significant subsample of MPD Ss
manifested abnormal intertest scatter on the WAIS-R verbal subtests, and
this variability was attributed to subtle neuropsychological deficits
on the Memory/Distractibility factor. Results suggest that dissociative
patients might need to be evaluated for attention deficit disorder in
addition to the range of dissociative symptoms in a comprehensive
evaluation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
Putnam, F., Carlson, E., Ross, C., Anderson, G., Clark, P., Torem,
M., Bowman, E., Coons, P, Chu, J, Dill, Diana, Loewenstein, R., &
Braun, B. (1996). Patterns of Dissociation in Clinical and Nonclinical Samples. The Journal of nervous and mental disease. 184. 673-9. 10.1097/00005053-199611000-00004.
Abstract: Research has consistently found elevated mean dissociation
scores in particular diagnostic groups. In this study, we explored
whether mean dissociation scores for different diagnostic groups
resulted from uniform distributions of scores within the group or were a
function of the proportion of highly dissociative patients that the
diagnostic group contained. A total of 1566 subjects who were
psychiatric patients, neurological patients, normal adolescents, or
normal adult subjects completed the Dissociative Experience Scale (DES).
An analysis of the percentage of subjects with high DES scores in each
diagnostic group indicated that the diagnostic group’s mean DES scores
were a function of the proportion of subjects within the group who were
high dissociators. The results contradict a continuum model of
dissociation but are consistent with the existence of distinct
dissociative types.
Braun, B., Schwartz, D., Kravitz, H., & Waxman, J. (1997): Frequency of EEG abnormalities in a large dissociative population. Dissociation: Volume 10, No. 2, p. 120-124
Abstract: A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine
the frequency of EEG abnormalities, particularly those suggesting
temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), among adult patients with dissociative
disorders. EEGs from 160 inpatients with dissociative disorders who were
treated at either of two sites specializing in the diagnosis and
treatment of dissociative disorders were reviewed. EEGs were categorized
as normal, possible drug effect, or abnormal. Overall, 7.5 % of
patients had EEGs that were interpreted as abnormal but only two (1.25
%) of the entire sample had findings that suggested TLE. The two sites
differed significantly in the percentage read as abnormal. According to
these results, a small minority of patients with dissociative disorders
have non-specific EEG abnormalities as well as more specific temporal
lobe dysrhythmias. However, the population and context in which the
dissociation–epilepsy association is explored will influence the outcome
of any attempt to resolve the question regarding the relationship.
Schwartz, D.R. & Rossini, E.D. & Braun, B.G. & Stein, G.M.. (1997). Factor analytic investigation of the WAIS-R among patients with dissociative psychopathology. Dissociation. 10. 54-57.
Abstract: The factor structure of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence
Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) was examined among 133 participants diagnosed
with a dissociative disorder. The results of two and three factor
orthogonal solutions with varimax rotation were obtained. The two and
three factor solutions were consistent with traditionalfactor analytic
studies with Verbal Comprehension and Perceptual Organization in the two
factor solution, and Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, and
Freedom from Distractibility in the three-factor solution. This is the
only factor analytic investigation using the WAIS-R to study a
dissociative population.
Frischholz, E.J., Braun, B.G., Sachs, R.G., Schwartz, D.R., Lewis,
J., Shaeffer, D. Westergaard, C., & Pasquotto, J. (2014). Construct Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale: II. Its Relationship to Hypnotizability. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 57:2, 102-109, DOI: 10.1080/00029157.2015.967056
Abstract: Undergraduates (n = 311) who volunteered to participate in
an experiment on “Hypnotizability and Personality” filled out several
personality questionnaires (including the Dissociative Experiences
Scale; DES), were administered the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic
Susceptibility (HGSHS), and completed a self-rating of hypnotizability.
The DES overall score correlated significantly with the HGSHS summary
score (r(309) = .12, p < .05, two-tailed) and with subject’s
self-rating of hypnotizability (r(309) = .13, p < .05, two-tailed).
The magnitude of these correlations was similar to that observed in a
previous study (.14 & .18) and is also similar in magnitude to the
correlations typically observed between the HGSHS and the Tellegen
Absorption Scale. The potential clinical implications of these findings
are discussed.
Frischholz, E. J., Lipman, L. S., Braun, B. G., & Sachs, R. (2015). Suggested posthypnotic amnesia in psychiatric patients and normals. The American journal of clinical hypnosis, 57(2), 110–121. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2015.967059
Abstract: The present study examined both quantitative and
qualitative hypnotizability differences among four psychiatric patient
groups (dissociative disorder (n = 17), schizophrenic (n = 13), mood
disorder (n = 14), and anxiety disorder (n = 14) patients), and normals
(college students (n = 63)). Dissociative disorder patients earned
significantly higher corrected total scores on the Stanford Hypnotic
Susceptibility Scale, Form C (mean = 7.94), than all other groups.
Likewise, dissociative disorder patients initially recalled
significantly fewer items when the posthypnotic amnesia suggestion was
in effect (mean = .41) and reversed significantly more items when the
suggestion was canceled (mean = 3.82) than all other groups. In
contrast, schizophrenic patients recalled significantly fewer items when
the amnesia suggestion was in effect (mean = 1.85) and reversed
significantly fewer items when it was canceled (mean = .77) than the
remaining groups. This qualitative difference between schizophrenic
patients and the other groups on the suggested posthypnotic amnesia item
was observed even though there were no significant quantitative
differences between groups in overall hypnotic responsivity.
