Multidimensional Dissociation Test (MID)

The IDRlabs Multidimensional Dissociation Test was developed by IDRlabs, based on the Multidimensional Inventory of Dissociation (MID).

Dissociation is a psychological phenomenon where a person disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. It can occur as a response to stress, trauma, or overwhelming emotional experiences. This detachment may manifest in various forms, such as feeling detached from one's surroundings, experiencing memory gaps, or feeling as though one is observing their own actions from outside their body. Dissociation can vary in severity, from mild daydreaming to more extreme forms, such as dissociative identity disorder (DID).

One common form of dissociation is depersonalization, where individuals feel disconnected from their body or sense of self. They may feel like they are outside their body, observing themselves from a distance, or that their actions are not under their control. Depersonalization often occurs during periods of high stress or emotional distress. It can also be triggered by certain mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

Another form of dissociation is derealization, where individuals perceive the world around them as unreal or distorted. Objects may appear strange, or people might seem unfamiliar, as though they are in a dream or movie. Derealization often occurs in response to trauma or extreme stress, and it can lead to a sense of alienation from the world and people around them. In some cases, it can be triggered by substance use or medical conditions, but it is primarily linked to emotional or psychological factors.

Dissociation is often a coping mechanism that helps individuals distance themselves from painful or traumatic experiences. For example, someone who has experienced abuse or a life-threatening event may dissociate as a way to numb emotional pain or protect themselves from overwhelming feelings. However, chronic dissociation can interfere with a person's ability to engage fully with their life, relationships, or responsibilities. It can also lead to memory problems, difficulty with concentration, and challenges in emotional regulation.

Treatment for dissociation typically involves therapy, particularly trauma-focused therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). These therapies help individuals process traumatic experiences, develop coping strategies, and integrate their dissociative experiences into their sense of self. In more severe cases, medication may be prescribed to address underlying conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. With appropriate treatment and support, individuals can manage dissociation and improve their emotional and psychological well-being.

As the publishers of this free test, which allows you to screen yourself for dissociation, we have strived to make the test as reliable and valid as possible by subjecting this test to statistical controls and validation. However, free online quizzes such as the present test do not provide professional assessments or recommendations of any kind; the test is provided entirely “as-is.” For more information about any of our online tests and quizzes, please consult our Terms of Service.