When Dissociation Goes From Protective to Problematic

Psychology Today | 27.01.2026 05:18
Derek yells at Maya while backing her into a corner and telling her she’s stupid, worthless, and a bad mother. Maya has heard this all many times before; this time, Derek won’t let up, and she feels afraid. Maya spaces out and cries softly, agreeing with whatever Derek says, waiting for him to run out of steam. Meanwhile, their two children are hiding in Maya's closet.