Factors that predict scores on the dissociative experiences scale

Bernstein and Putnam (1986) recently developed the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES), a reliable and valid measure of dissociative experiences. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship of the DES to other measures of psychopathology and cognitive functioning. Seventy‐six female and 43 male university students were administered the DES, the Hopkins Symptom Checklist (HSCL‐90), the Maudsley Obsessional‐Compulsive Inventory (MOCI), the Tellegen Absorption Scale (TAS), and the Barnes‐Vulcano Rationality Test (BVRT). A standard multiple regression was computed that used the DES as the criterion variable and the HSCL‐90, MOCI, TAS, and BVRT as predictor variables. The results showed that 61% of the variance for DES scores could be predicted by three subscales of the HSCL‐90 (Phobic Anxiety, Anger‐Hostility, Somatization) and the TAS and BVRT. The importance of the relationship between the predictor variables and the DES for understanding dissociative disorders, especially multiple personality disorder, was discussed.