Question

Describe the differences and similarities between depersonalization and derealization.

Answer 1

Depersonalization and derealization are often clubbed together and form derealization-depersonalization disorder as both of the disorder involve detachment of an individual and are generally caused due to anxiety, borderline personality or schizophrenia. Although the conditions are somehow similar but they have significant differences associated with them. These are-

In case of depersonalization the individual gets detached from his own self but in perealization he is detached from the outside world. Hence in depersonalization internal detachment is seen but in derealization external detachment is seen.

In cases of depersonalization social alienation does not take place as the person can still engage and act in the social settings like workplace and carry his routines but in cases of derealization the social alienation is a prominent aspect as social world is a part of the outside world and it is generally distorted or non existant for the people experiencing derealization

Depersonalisation is a mental disorder and is not associated with any injuries in the brain but derealization has a main cause of head injuries specially in the occipital lobe and visual pathway