An exploration of the relationship between voices, dissociation, and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms

Abstract

Objectives: Extensive research has shown voice hearing to be associated with symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and dissociation. However, most studies have adopted a quantitative design, using cross-sectional data sampling methods, precluding temporal relationships between variables from being defined. Design: Using a qualitative design, this study sought to identify potential symptom relationships by addressing the research question: what is the nature of the temporal relationship between voices, dissociation and PTSD symptoms?. Methods: Seven voice hearers (aged 27 to 68 years) participated in a semi-structured interview exploring voice hearing, PTSD symptoms, and dissociation. The interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Results: One superordinate theme was identified in the data. Voices were observed to occur in dynamic interrelationship with PTSD symptoms and dissociation, and were frequently experienced before and after PTSD symptoms and dissociative episodes. Conclusions: Implications for theoretical understandings of voice hearing and future research are discussed.