Dissociation is a complex psychological phenomenon that can manifest in various ways and may be influenced by individual experiences and coping mechanisms. While there is limited specific research on dissociation related to multilingual individuals and verbal abuse, dissociation, in general, can be a coping response to traumatic experiences, including verbal abuse.
For multilingual individuals who have experienced significant verbal abuse in a particular language, it is possible for dissociation to occur as a defense mechanism. The person may associate that language with traumatic memories, emotional distress, or feelings of helplessness, leading to a dissociation from it. This dissociation can manifest as avoiding using or engaging with the language, having memory gaps when using the language, or feeling detached from oneself when speaking or hearing it.
The extent and prevalence of dissociation in multilingual individuals who have experienced verbal abuse likely vary from person to person and depend on various factors, such as the severity and duration of the abuse, the individual's coping mechanisms, their support system, and other individual characteristics.
It is essential to recognize that dissociation and its relation to trauma, including verbal abuse, is a complex topic, and more research is needed to fully understand its manifestations in multilingual individuals. If someone is experiencing difficulties related to dissociation, trauma, or any other mental health issue, it is crucial for them to seek support from a qualified mental health professional who can provide appropriate assessment and therapeutic interventions.