Which statement is true regarding dissociative disorders?

• A. Dissociative disorders are primarily characterized by persistent mood swings.
• B. Dissociative disorders are caused exclusively by genetic factors.
• C. Dissociative disorders involve disruptions in memory, identity, or consciousness.
• D. Dissociative disorders always include hallucinations and delusions.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of dissociative disorders. These disorders involve disruptions or discontinuities in normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, emotion, perception, body representation, motor control, and behavior.
2. Step 2: Recognize that dissociative disorders are not primarily characterized by mood swings; mood swings are more typical of mood disorders such as bipolar disorder.
3. Step 3: Note that dissociative disorders are not caused exclusively by genetic factors. Instead, they often arise from complex interactions including trauma, especially early childhood trauma, and psychological stress.
4. Step 4: Identify that hallucinations and delusions are symptoms more commonly associated with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia, not dissociative disorders.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the true statement is that dissociative disorders involve disruptions in memory, identity, or consciousness, which aligns with the core features of these disorders.