The Perceptual Alteration Scale: A Scale Measuring Dissociation

Abstract

A Perceptual Alteration Scale (PAS) was developed which shows promise as a measure of dissociation. Dissociation is defined as a personality trait that is characterized by modification of connections between affect, cognition, and perception of voluntary control over behavior, as well as modifications in the subjective experience of affect, voluntary control, and perception. On initial testing, the PAS discriminated between college students who had normal eating habits and those who were binge eaters. Reliability analysis yielded an alpha score of .95. Three factors were extracted on a factor analysis. In addition, the scale correlated significantly with a number of personality measures. Much work must be done before the scale can be used as a clinical instrument. Continued cross validation studies and construct validity studies must be carried out. Nonetheless, the scale appears to be a reliable tool in assessing experiences described as dissociative.