Dissociation in Late Modern America

<p><em>Dissociation</em> typically describes a psychological defense that protects the psyche from emotionally overwhelming events. However dissociation can also contribute to maintaining and restoring relationships after suffering traumatic stress and overwhelming social strain. Two aspects of late modern American society interfere with dissociation's contribution to social change: 1) the Enlightenment conception of human nature on which American democracy is based and 2) America's sharp distinctions between public and private spheres of life. Using research on human evolution neuroscience trauma and Jungian psychology <em>Dissociation in Late Modern America</em> shows how Americans have become dependent on dissociative defenses in everyday life challenging their capacity for soulful connections and living.</p>