Bennett G. Braun’s research (full bibliography at the bottom of the page)

(with information about the Burgus v. Braun legal case)

Bennett Braun was a famous doctor that worked in the field of dissociation and trauma in the 1980’s and early 1990’s. He created the BASK Model of Dissociation, a model for understanding and healing dissociation that is still used by some today.

The BASK Model of Dissociation Bennett G. Braun, M.D. ABSTRACT The BASK model conceptualizes the complex phenomenology of dissociation along with dimensions of Behavior, Affect, Sensation, and Knowledge. The process of dissociation itself, hypnosis, and the clinical mental disorders that constitute the dissociative disorders are described in terms of this model, and illustrated.
https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1276/Diss_1_1_2_OCR_rev.pdf

Psychiatry Research
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 1985, Pages 253-260
Psychiatry Research
Dissociative states in multiple personality disorder: A quantitative study
Edward K.Silberman
Frank W.Putnam Herbert Weingartner Bennett G. Braun Robert M.Post
https://doi.org/10.1016/0165-1781(85)90062-9
Multiple personality disorder (MPD) patients may experience themselves as several discrete alter personalities who do not share consciousness or memories with one another. In this study, we asked whether MPD patients are different from controls in their ability to learn and remember, and their ability to compartmentalize information. MPD patients were not found to differ from controls in overall memory level. Learning of information by MPD patients in disparate personality states did not result in greater compartmentalization than that of which control subjects were capable. However, there were qualitative differences between the cognitive performance of patients and that of controls attempting to role-play alter personalities. Our results suggest that simple confabulation is not an adequate model for the MPD syndrome, and we consider a possible role for state-dependent learning in the phenomenology of MPD.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0165178185900629

Intellectual functioning of inpatients with dissociative identity disorder and dissociative disorder not otherwise specified.
Rossini, E. D., Schwartz, D. R., & Braun, B. G. (1996). Intellectual functioning of inpatients with dissociative identity disorder and dissociative disorder not otherwise specified. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 184(5), 289–294. https://doi.org/10.1097/00005053-199605000-00004
Abstract
Examined the intellectual functioning of 50 inpatients with multiple personality disorder (MPD) and 55 inpatients with dissociative disorder (DSD) not otherwise specified using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale–Revised (WAIS–R) as part of a comprehensive research protocol. No significant intellectual differences were found between MPD and DSD Ss on any major IQ summary score or on any of the age-adjusted empirical factor scores. A significant subsample of MPD Ss manifested abnormal intertest scatter on the WAIS-R verbal subtests, and this variability was attributed to subtle neuropsychological deficits on the Memory/Distractibility factor. Results suggest that dissociative patients might need to be evaluated for attention deficit disorder in addition to the range of dissociative symptoms in a comprehensive evaluation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)
https://psycnet.apa.org/record/1996-00445-004

Rorschach Indicators of Multiple Personality Disorder Sep 1992 SUSAN M. LABOTT. FRANK LEAVITT. BENNETT G. BRAUN, ROBERTA G. SACHS
The increase in reported cases of Multiple Personality Disorder underscores a great need to differentiate clearly this from other psychiatric disorders and from simulation of Multiple Personality Disorder. Two sets of Rorschach signs have been advanced as clinical markers by their developers, namely Barach and also Wagner, Allison, and Wagner.
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.1009.5788&rep=rep1&type=pdf

From https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Bennett-G-Braun-73957132

Dissociation : Volume 10, No. 2, p. 120-124 : Frequency of EEG abnormalities in a large dissociative population
Article Jun 1997
Bennett G. Braun David R. Schwartz Howard M. Kravitz Jordan Waxman
Frequency of EEG abnormalities in a large dissociative population
Article Jun 1997 B.G. Braun D.R. Schwartz H.M. Kravitz J. Waxman
A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine the frequency of electroencephalographic abnormalities, particularly those suggesting temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), among patients with dissociative disorders.

Factor analytic investigation of the WAIS-R among patients with dissociative psychopathology
Article Mar 1997 D.R. Schwartz E.D. Rossini B.G. Braun G.M. Stein
The factor structure of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) was examined among 133 participants diagnosed with a dissociative disorder.

Patterns of Dissociation in Clinical and Nonclinical Samples
Dec 1996 FRANK W. PUTNAM Eve B Carlson Colin A. Ross BENNETT G. BRAUN
Research has consistently found elevated mean dissociation scores in particular diagnostic groups.

Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale in screening for Multiple Personality Disorder: A multicenter study
Article Aug 1993 Eve B Carlson F W Putnam Colin A. Ross B G Braun
The Dissociative Experiences Scale has proved a reliable and valid instrument to measure dissociation in many groups, but its capacity to distinguish patients with multiple personality disorder from patients with other psychiatric disorders has not yet been conclusively tested.

Psychopathology, Hypnotizability, and dissociation Article Dec 1992 E J Frischholz L S Lipman B G Braun
R G Sachs
The purpose of the study was to replicate and extend previous findings regarding the hypnotizability of different clinical groups. The authors compared the differential hypnotizability of four psychiatric groups–patients with dissociative disorders (N = 17), schizophrenia (N = 13), mood disorders (N = 13), and anxiety disorders (N = 14)

Bupropion-Associated Mania in a Patient with HIV Infection Nov 1992 Christopher Glenn Fichtner BENNETT G. BRAUN

Construct Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale: II. Its Relationship to Hypnotizability
Oct 1992 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Roberta G. Sachs Jim Pasquotto
Undergraduates (n = 311) who volunteered to participate in an experiment on “Hypnotizability and Personality” filled out several personality questionnaires (including the Dissociative Experiences Scale; DES), were administered the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility (HGSHS), and completed a self-rating of hypnotizability.

Suggested Posthypnotic Amnesia in Psychiatric Patients and Normals Aug 1992 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Laurie S. Lipman Roberta Sachs
The present study examined both quantitative and qualitative hypnotizability differences among four psychiatric patient groups (dissociative disorder (n = 17), schizophrenic (n = 13), mood disorder (n = 14), and anxiety disorder (n = 14) patients), and normals (college students (n = 63).

Construct validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES): I. The relationship between the DES and other self-report measures of DES. Dec 1991 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Roberta G. Sachs David R. Schwartz
Administered the DES, the Tellegen Absorption Scale (ABS), the Perceptual Alteration Scale (PAS), the Yellen Ambiguity Intolerance Scale (YAIS), and the Jenkins Activity Schedule to 311 undergraduates. The DES total score (and 3 DES factor scores) correlated with the ABS and PAS and YAIS overall scores.
http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.1009.5788&rep=rep1&type=pdf

Historical reliability: a key to differentiating populations among patients presenting signs of multiple personality disorder. Nov 1991 FRANK LEAVITT BENNETT BRAUN
The clinical value of inconsistencies in the historical data of patients presenting with signs of multiple personality disorder was assessed. Three major inconsistencies in historical data were identified in 23 patients who were admitted to a Dissociative Disorders Program with a diagnosis of Multiple Personality Disorder.

Patients reporting ritual abuse in childhood: A clinical syndrome. Report of 37 cases
Feb 1991 Walter C. Young Roberta G. Sachs Bennett G. Braun Ruth T. Watkins
Thirty-seven adult dissociative disorder patients who reported ritual abuse in childhood by satanic cults are described. Patients came from a variety of separate clinical settings and geographical locations and reported a number of similar abuses. The most frequently reported types of ritual abuse are outlined, and a clinical syndrome is presented.

Construct validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES): I. The relation between the des and other self-report measures of dissociation Jan 1991 E.J. Frischholz B.G. Braun R.G. Sachs J. Pasquotto

The Dissociative Experiences Scale: Further replication and validation
Sep 1990 Edward J. Frischholz Bennett G. Braun Roberta G. Sachs
Administered the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) of E. M. Bernstein and F. W. Putnam (see record 1987-14407-001) to 259 college students, 33 patients with multiple personality disorder (MPD), and 29 patients with a dissociative disorder not otherwise specified (DDNOS). The interrater reliability for the DES scoring procedure was excellent.

Hypnosis and Eyewitness Testimony Feb 1986 Patrick A Tuite Bennett G Braun Edward J Frischholz
DISSOCIATIVE PSYCHOPATHOLOGY David R. Schwartz Edward Rossini Bennett G. Braun M. Stein
The factor structure of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) was examined among 133 participants diagnosed with a dissociative disorder . The results of two and three factor orthogonal solutions with varimax rotation were obtained .

Treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder

Front Cover

Bennett G. Braun

https://books.google.com/books?id=kPxuNFMOzQkC&pg=PR7&source=gbs_selected_pages&cad=2#v=onepage&q&f=false

Disciplined doctor licensed in Montana – Associated Press – October 16, 2003 By Bob Anez
After legal attacks in the 1990’s, he agreed to a two-year suspension of his medical license in October 1999 and was given five years probation after accusations by a former patient. Braun had stated that he didn’t contest his license suspension and $5,000 fine because he was exhausted financially, emotionally and physically. He said he spent about $500,000 to initially fight the disciplinary case.

Candidate accused by former patient by Thomas R. O’Donnell – Des Moines Register – 10/28/98 – “A former Iowan who won a $10.6 million settlement from a Chicago hospital and two psychiatrists said the diagnosis of multiple personalities and repressed memories of satanic cults that led to her lawsuit originated with a West Des Moines clinical social worker. But the social worker, Ann-Marie Baughman, now a Polk County legislative candidate, said that when she started counseling Patricia Burgus in 1982, Burgus was a troubled woman who was threatening to kill herself and others. Burgus…also was displaying behavior that Baughman could not understand. “It was the physical changes more than just the verbal expressions of what she was telling me” that led Baughman to conclude she was seeing multiple personalities. The “muscles in her face would all relax . . . and she would just look different. It was just the eeriest thing….But suggestions that Braun somehow planted the horrific memories in Burgus’ head are wrong, Baughman said, because they started surfacing during her sessions with Burgus in Des Moines….In the settlement, reached last fall after six years of litigation, neither the hospital nor the psychiatrists, Braun and Elva Poznanski, admitted fault. Braun has said his insurance company settled over his objections.”

Here’s a summary of the research on Burgus v. Braun et al that was presented by a researcher at the 2002 International Society for the Study of Dissociation conference in Baltimore

In 1993 the Burgus family filed a malpractice lawsuit against Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center, Dr. Elva Poznanski, the boys” psychiatrist, and Dr. Bennett Braun, Pat’s psychiatrist…Before her hospitalization at Rush in 1983, Pat spent most days in bed in with the curtains drawn, unable to care for herself. She threatened to kill herself and others. Her husband came home for lunch to make sure the boys were fed. She became convinced that the doctor who did her tubal ligation had implanted a fetus during the surgery. She approached mothers of infant daughters, asking them if they would trade their daughter for her infant son, Mikey. Pat entered Rush diagnosed with multiple personality disorder and borderline personality disorder. Upon admission Pat was agitated and incoherent. During her first month on the unit and before she was placed on meds, Pat told staff “I’m switching [personalities] out of control today. I’m doing so much switching today I can’t believe it.” Pat testified that the rapid switching decreased over time as her medications were increased….Other patients said they recognized her from her participation in cult-related criminal activities. At the time of her release from Rush in 1987 Pat was more stable and integrated. Did Pat’s psychiatrist implant false memories as Pat has claimed? On January 17, 1997, a defense attorney asked Pat about the source of her memories. Pat repeatedly conceded that she had originated all the memories herself. Her psychiatrist did not implant any memories. He had simply passed on to her what the other patients had reported.” https://ritualabuse.us/smart-conference/2010-conference/the-move-from-blame-the-victim-to-blame-the-helper/

Bibliography

Braun, B.G., (1986). Treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder. American Psychiatric Association Publishing; 1st edition.

Braun, B. G. (1979, October). Hypnosis creates multiple personality: Myth or reality? Paper presented at the 31st Annual Meeting of the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, Denver.

Braun, B. G. (1980). Hypnosis for multiple personality. In H. J. Wain (Ed.), Clinical hypnosis in medicine (pp. 209–218). Chicago: Yearbook Medical Publishers.

Braun, B. G. (1982). Multiple personality: Form, function and phenomena. Privately printed and distributed.

Braun, B. G. (1983). Psychophysiological phenomena in multiple personality and hypnosis. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 26(2), 124–137. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.1983.10404152

Abstract: Demonstrates similarities in psychophysiologic phenomena found in multiple personality disorder (MPD), individuals using hypnosis, and others who did not use hypnosis. The use of hypnosis is outlined for cases involving allergic responses, dermatologic reactions, the automatic nervous system, the CNS, seizure disorders, and pain control. Eight case vignettes featuring MPD patients and citations of related phenomena from the hypnosis literature are presented. Hypnotic healing mechanisms and possible unifying concepts for these parallels are discussed. It is suggested that a form of hypnosis/autohypnosis may be a common denominator underlying these phenomena. (90 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)

Braun, B. G. (1984a). Hypnosis creates multiple personality: Myth or reality? International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 32(2), 191–197. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207148408416009

Abstract: Since the 19th century, multiple personality has been associated with hysteria and hypnosis. The myth that hypnosis can create multiple personality is examined through a review of studies that have suggested or implied a casual link between hypnosis and multiple personality. While it is possible that personality fragments can appear under hypnosis, there is no evidence that personalities with separate life histories and a full range of affect can be created with hypnosis. Such personality fragments typically appear only for a limited time and are readily reintegrated. It is concluded that hypnosis is a valuable tool in diagnosing and treating multiple personalities. (French, German & Spanish abstracts)

Braun, B. G. (1984b). Towards a theory of multiple personality and other dissociative phenomena. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Symposium on multiple personality. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 7, 171–194.

Kluft, R.P., Braun, B. G., & Sachs, R.G. (1984). Multiple personality disorder, intrafamilial abuse, and family psychiatry. International Journal of Family Psychiatry, 5(4), 303–313.

Lipman, L. S., Braun, B. G., & Frischholz, E. J. (1984). Hypnotizability and multiple personality disorder: Part I, overall hypnotic responsivity. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1984: Proceedings of the First International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative States (p. 100). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.

Frischholz, E. J., Lipman, E. S., & Braun, B. G. (1984). Hypnosis in multiple personality disorder: Part II, special hypnotic phenomena. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1984: Proceedings of the First International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative States (p. 101). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.

Horevitz, R. & Braun, B.G. (1984). Are Multiple Personalities Borderline?: An Analysis of 33 Cases. Psychiatric Clinics of North America 7(1): 69-87. DOI:10.1016/S0193-953X(18)30781-0

Abstract: The authors detail their investigation into the positive relationship between borderline personality and multiple personality and present their finding that although borderline personality disorder is very prevalent in patients with multiple personality disorder, it is not universal and is a separate and distinct disorder.

Braun, B. G. & Sachs, R. G. (1985). The development of multiple personality disorder. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Childhood antecedents of multiple personality (pp. 37–64). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.

Braun, B. G. (1985a). The transgenerational incidence of dissociation and multiple personality disorder. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Childhood antecedents of multiple personality (pp. 127–150). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.

Braun, B. G. (1985b). Dissociation: Behavior, affect, sensation, knowledge. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1985: Proceedings of the Second International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative States (p. 6). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.

Silberman, E. K., Putnam, F. W., Weingartner, H., Braun, B. G., & Post, R. M. (1985). Dissociative states in multiple personality disorder: a quantitative study. Psychiatry research, 15(4), 253–260. https://doi.org/10.1016/0165-1781(85)90062-9

Abstract: Multiple personality disorder (MPD) patients may experience themselves as several discrete alter personalities who do not share consciousness or memories with one another. In this study, we asked whether MPD patients are different from controls in their ability to learn and remember, and their ability to compartmentalize information. MPD patients were not found to differ from controls in overall memory level. Learning of information by MPD patients in disparate personality states did not result in greater compartmentalization than that of which control subjects were capable. However, there were qualitative differences between the cognitive performance of patients and that of controls attempting to role-play alter personalities. Our results suggest that simple confabulation is not an adequate model for the MPD syndrome, and we consider a possible role for state-dependent learning in the phenomenology of MPD.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0165178185900629

Braun, B. G. & Sachs, R. G. (1985). The development of multiple personality disorder: Predisposing, precipitating, and perpetuating factors. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Childhood antecedents of multiple personality (pp. 37–64). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.

Braun, B. G., & Gray, G. T. (1986). Report on the 1985 questionnaire on multiple personality disorder. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1986: Proceedings of the Third International Conference on Multiple Personality /Dissociative States (p. 111). Chicago: Rush-St. Luke’s-Presbyterian Medical Center.

Sachs, R. G., & Braun, B. G. (1986). The use of sand trays with the MPD patient. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1986: Proceedings of the Third International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative States (p. 61). Chicago: Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Schultz, R., Braun, B. G., & Kluft, R. P. (1986). The interface between multiple personality disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1986: Proceedings of the Third International Conference on Multiple Personality/Dissociative States (p. 111). Chicago: Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Braun, B. G. (1986a). Dissociation: An overview. Annual Meeting of the American Psychiatric Association, Washington, DC.

Braun, B. G. (1986b). Issues in the psychotherapy of multiple personality disorder. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Treatment of multiple personality disorder (pp. 1–28). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press. https://www.appi.org/Products/Personality-Disorders/Treatment-of-Multiple-Personality-Disorder

Barkin, R., Braun, B. G., & Kluft, R. P. (1986). The dilemma of drug therapy for multiple personality disorder. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Treatment of multiple personality disorder (pp. 107–132). Washington, DC: American Psychiatric Press.

Braun, B. & Horevitz, R. (1986). Hypnosis and Psychotherapy. Psychiatric Annals 16(2):81-86 DOI:10.3928/0048-5713-19860201-07

Abstract: Differentiates between hypnotic inductions, trance development and deepening procedures, and the use of hypnotic techniques independent of hypnotic trance. It is argued that hypnosis can be applied in any psychotherapy framework and utilizes strengths and capacities of the patient that might not otherwise be accessible. The author describes how a patient can be prepared for hypnosis and the utility of hypnotic training before formal treatment is begun. Potential psychotherapeutic applications of hypnosis in memory enhancement, dealing with selective amnesia, and achieving volitional control of physiological processes are discussed, and the case of a 36-yr-old woman is presented.

Tuite, P.A., Braun, B.G., & Frischholz, E.J. (1986). Hypnosis and Eyewitness Testimony. Psychiatric Annals, 16, 91-95.

Braun, B. G. (1988a). The BASK (behavior, affect, sensation, knowledge) model of dissociation. Dissociation, 1 (1), 4–23.

ABSTRACT: The BASK model conceptualizes the complex phenomenology of dissociation along with dimensions of Behavior, Affect, Sensation, and Knowledge. The process of dissociation itself, hypnosis, and the clinical mental disorders that constitute the dissociative disorders are described in terms of this model, and illustrated.

https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1276/Diss_1_1_2_OCR_rev.pdf

Braun, B. G. (1988b). The BASK model of dissociation: Part II: Treatment. Dissociation, 1 (2), 16–23.

ABSTRACT: This article is a continuation of the BASK Model ofDissociation: Part 1, which discussed the phenomena and theory of dissociation. It uses the previously described BASK Model (Behavior, Affea, Sensation, Knowledge levels within a time continuum) and applies it to treatment. Since treatment is a dynamic concept and knowledge is a static term, BASK is changed to BA TS, wherein the active term “thought” is substituted for “knowledge. ” The interrelationship of the various dimensions of the BATS model is demonstrated and described. The BASK format is used to describe how a behavior, affect, thought and/or sensation clue is used to track down and synthesize the BASK/BATS components in psychotherapy through work with different personalities and/or fragments. A main thesis is that congruence of the BASK/BATS levels across the space/time continuum is required for healthy functioning. It is hoped from this discussion that the reader will get a sufficient understanding the Sheridan Road Hospital. of the practical use of the BASK model and that he/she might apply it to her/his school and practice of psychotherapy.

https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1340/Diss_1_2_3_OCR_rev.pdf

Sachs, R. G.., Braun, B. G., & Shepp, E. (1988). Technique for planned abreactions with MPD patients. In B. G. Braun (Ed.), Dissociative disorders 1988: Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Multiple Personality /Dissociative States (p. 85). Chicago: Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center.

Braun, B. (1989). Psychotherapy of the Survivor of Incest With a Dissociative Disorder.

Psychiatric Clinics of North America Volume 12, Issue 2, June 1989, Pages 307-324

Abstract: The treatment of the survivor of incest who suffers from a dissociative disorder is probably somewhat more difficult than that of other survivors of incest because for these others the material is more readily available. Also the patient with DD was probably more severely abused or the dissociative defense would not have been needed. This too makes therapy difficult, especially in that most necessary step: the development of trust and rapport. Despite these problems, there is a very good chance for a successful therapy that will bring the dissociated material back into the main stream of consciousness with a “here and now” appropriate perspective. This can be accomplished through proper diagnosis, good theoretics grounding, and therapy including psychotherapy with appropriate limit setting and the judicious use of medication. This article presents a summary of the BASK model of dissociation and two other models and gives ideas on how these models may be applied to the understanding of the etiology of dissociative disorders and their treatment. Case examples are used to illustrate successful treatment. Although treatment of incest survivors with dissociative disorders is difficult, success can be anticipated, and the rewards to the patient and the satisfaction for the therapist are great.

Schultz, R. G., Braun, B. G., & Kluft, R. P. (1989). Multiple personality disorder: Phenomenology of selected variables in comparison to major depression. Dissociation, 2, 45–51.

Abstract: Various findings from a retrospective survey of 355 multiple personality disorder (MPD) patients and 235 major depression patients, who served as a comparison group, are discussed. The survey was completed by 448 independent clinicians, 142 of whom contributed information on both an MPD and a major depression patient. The study confirms recent findings in the literature that MPD is not a rare disorder, its sufferers include a preponderance of females, and it is highly correlated with childhood trauma, especially sexual and physical abuse. In addition, the study indicates that clinicians who diagnose MPD perceive clinical phenomena in a manner similar to those clinicians who have not yet made this diagnosis.

https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1413/Diss_2_1_7_OCR_rev.pdf?sequence=5

Braun, B. G. (1989). Dissociation as a sequela to incest. In R. P. Kluft (Ed.), Symposium on psychotherapy of the survivor of incest with a dissociative disorder}. Psychiatric Clinics of North America, 12, 307–324.

Braun, B.. (1990). Multiple Personality Disorder: An Overview. The American journal of occupational therapy : official publication of the American Occupational Therapy Association. 44. 971-6. 10.5014/ajot.44.11.971.

Abstract: Multiple personality disorder is understood today as chronic dissociative psychopathology that most often develops in response to severe abuse in childhood. The dissociative component is a manifestation of a defense mechanism out of control. The person with a biopsychological capacity to dissociate flees inward from overwhelming abuse or feared abuse. When continuing abuse perpetuates dissociations and they are chained by common affective themes, the foundations of multiple personality disorder are laid. Although the disorder has its roots in childhood, most patients are not diagnosed with this condition until 20 to 50 years of age. Many have received several prior, erroneous diagnoses of mental or physical disorders or both over a period of 7 or more years. Failure of diagnosis is an indication of the multiple factors that contribute to making this a covert disorder. Diagnosis and management begin at the same place: the establishment of trust and therapeutic alliance between patient and therapist.

Frischholz, E. J., Braun, B. G., Sachs, R. G., Hopkins, L., et al. (1990). The Dissociative Experiences Scale: Further replication and validation. Dissociation: Progress in the Dissociative Disorders, 3(3), 151–153.

Abstract: Administered the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) of E. M. Bernstein and F. W. Putnam (see record 1987-14407-001) to 259 college students, 33 patients with multiple personality disorder (MPD), and 29 patients with a dissociative disorder not otherwise specified (DDNOS). The interrater reliability for the DES scoring procedure was excellent. The test–retest reliability of DES scores was also excellent, which suggests that DES total scores are temporally stable and similar in absolute value across testings. The internal consistency of DES scores was very high. Both MPD and DDNOS Ss earned significantly higher DES scores than did students. MPD Ss earned significantly higher DES scores than DDNOS Ss. A DES cut-off score of 45–55 will maximize the probability of correctly classifying normal Ss from dissociative disorder patients while minimizing the rates of false positive and false negative errors.

 https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1653/Diss_3_3_5_OCR_rev.pdf?sequence=4

Braun, B. G. (1990). Unusual medication regimens in the treatment of dissociative disorder patients: Part I. Noradrenergic agents. Dissociation, 3(3), 144–150.

Abstract: Describes the use of the noradrenergic agents propranolol and clonidine in an experimental setting to reduce switching and anxiety in dissociative disorder patients, making them better candidates for psychotherapy. The rationale for this use (unapproved by the Food and Drug Administration) of the drugs is based on 2 theories of emotion. It is hypothesized further that the mechanisms proposed by the 2 theories are reinforcing of one another via classical conditioning in the production and reinforcement of chronic, severe anxiety responses. The effect of propranolol and clonidine can complement the effect of benzodiazepines in patients with dissociative disorder. In the protocol described, propranolol or clonidine is sometimes used at ultrahigh doses.

** https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1655/Diss_3_3_4_OCR_rev.pdf?sequence=4

Leavitt, F., & Braun, B. (1991). Historical reliability: a key to differentiating populations among patients presenting signs of multiple personality disorder. Psychological reports, 69(2), 499–510. https://doi.org/10.2466/pr0.1991.69.2.499

Abstract: The clinical value of inconsistencies in the historical data of patients presenting with signs of multiple personality disorder was assessed. Three major inconsistencies in historical data were identified in 23 patients who were admitted to a Dissociative Disorders Program with a diagnosis of Multiple Personality Disorder. This group showed psychological disturbance that was quite different from 23 patients with a similar discharge diagnosis but who did not exhibit inconsistencies in history. The former group reported less psychological disturbance and fewer dissociative experiences. Patients who are less credible by virtue of inconsistencies in their historical reports may belong to a different diagnostic group. The findings point to the need to chart history carefully in authenticating genuine cases.

Frischholz, E.J., Braun, B.G., Sachs, R.G., Schwartz, D.R., Lewis, J., Shaeffer, D., Westergaard, C. & Pasquotto, J. (1991). Construct validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES): I. The relation between the DES and other self-report measures of dissociation. Dissociation: Vol. 4 (4), p. 185-188

Abstract: The present study attempted to expand the construct validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) by comparing it to: (a) other self-report measures of dissociation (e.g., the Tellegen Absorption Scale [TAS] and the Perceptual Alteration Scale [PAS]); (b) the construct of “ambiguity intolerance” (assessed by the Yellen Ambiguity Intolerance Scale [YAIS]); and (c) the Jenkins Activity Schedule (JAS: which measures the degree of Type A behavior). Three hundred and eleven undergraduates participated in an experiment on “Hypnotizability and Personality, ” and filled out the DES TAS, PAS, YAIS, and JAS. The DES total score (and three DES factor scores) correlated with the TAS and PAS in the range of .24 – .52 (all correlations were significant at the .001 level, two-tailed). Furthermore, the DES total score (and the three DES factor scores) correlated significantly with the YAIS overall score (r’s ranged from .22 – .24, all p’s < .001), but did not correlate significantly with the JAS (r’s ranged from -.03 – .04, ns). The findings suggest that DES scores (i.e., total scores and each of the three DES factor scores) show good levels of convergent validity as they correlate significantly with other self-report measures of dissociation. However, the intercorrelations were not high enough to consider the different dissociation measures as interchangeable. Furthermore, subjects reporting high levels of dissociative experiences also reported higher levels of ambiguity intolerance. However, no significant association was observed between DES scores and the Type A behavior pattern.

https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/36680041.pdf

Young, W.C., Sachs, R.G., Braun, B.G., & Watkins, R.T. (1991). Patients reporting ritual abuse in childhood: A clinical syndrome. Report of 37 cases. Child Abuse and Neglect, 15, 181-189.

Abstract: Thirty-seven adult dissociative disorder patients who reported ritual abuse in childhood by satanic cults are described. Patients came from a variety of separate clinical settings and geographical locations and reported a number of similar abuses. The most frequently reported types of ritual abuse are outlined, and a clinical syndrome is presented which includes dissociative states with satanic overtones, severe post-traumatic stress disorder, survivor guilt, bizarre self abuse, unusual fears, sexualization of sadistic impulses, indoctrinated beliefs, and substance abuse. Questions relating to issues of reliability, credibility and verfiability are addressed in depth, and the findings and implications are discussed.

Fichtner, C., & Braun, B. (1992). Bupropion-Associated Mania in a Patient with HIV Infection. Journal of clinical psychopharmacology. 12. 366-7. 10.1097/00004714-199210000-00017.

Frischholz, E.J., Lipman, L.S., Braun, B.G., & Sachs, R.G. (1992). Psychopathology, hypnotizability, and dissociation. American Journal of Psychiatry 149(11):1521-5

DOI:10.1176/ajp.149.11.1521

Abstract: The purpose of the study was to replicate and extend previous findings regarding the hypnotizability of different clinical groups. The authors compared the differential hypnotizability of four psychiatric groups–patients with dissociative disorders (N = 17), schizophrenia (N = 13), mood disorders (N = 13), and anxiety disorders (N = 14)–and one normal group of college students (N = 63). Hypnotizability was assessed by four different measures: the eye roll sign and the induction score of the Hypnotic Induction Profile, the Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale, Form C, and two self-ratings of hypnotizability. As predicted, dissociative disorder patients had significantly higher hypnotizability scores on all measures than all other groups. Schizophrenic patients, on the other hand, had significantly lower scores than normal subjects on the eye roll sign and induction score but not on the other measures of hypnotizability. Some other unpredicted between-group differences were also found. Nevertheless, despite the between-group differences, the intercorrelations between the various hypnotizability measures within the normal group were very similar to those observed in the combined patient groups. The findings suggest that routine hypnotizability assessment may be useful in the differential diagnosis of patients with dissociative disorders.

Fichtner, C. G., & Braun, B. G. (1992). Bupropion-associated mania in a patient with HIV infection. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology, 12(5), 366–367. https://doi.org/10.1097/00004714-199210000-00017

Abstract: Presents the case of a 50-yr-old man with HIV infection and a history of hospitalization for depression with suicidality, as well as mania in association with fluoxetine and bupropion treatment. The case shares several features of one previously reported by J. K. Zubieta and M. A. Demitrack (see record 1992-10254-001).

Labott, S. M., Leavitt, F., Braun, B. G., & Sachs, R. G. (1992). Rorschach indicators of multiple personality disorder. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 75(1), 147-158.

The increase in reported cases of Multiple Personality Disorder underscores a great need to differentiate clearly this from other psychiatric disorders and from simulation of Multiple Personality Disorder. Two sets of Rorschach signs have been advanced as clinical markers by their developers, namely Barach and also Wagner, Allison, and Wagner.

Abstract: The increase in reported cases of Multiple Personality Disorder underscores a great need to differentiate clearly this from other psychiatric disorders and from simulation of Multiple Personality Disorder. Two sets of Rorschach signs have been advanced as clinical markers by their developers, namely, Barach and also Wagner, Allison, and Wagner. As the Wagner signs are prevalent in much of the research on Rorschach responses in Multiple Personality Disorder, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate these signs using Wagner’s administration and the resulting Rorschach protocols of 16 Multiple Personality Disorder patients and 16 psychiatric controls. Analysis indicated that this system was deficient in correctly classifying these 32 protocols. A new marker, the Splitting Response, emerged, however, which was more useful. This response, in combination with at least one Dissociative response, produced an accuracy rate of 94%. These new criteria may be useful aids in the detection of Multiple Personality Disorder from Rorschach protocols. Replication is urged.

Fichtner, C., Horevitz, R., & Braun, B. (1993). Fluoxetine in depersonalization disorder. The American journal of psychiatry. 149. 1750-1.

Abstract: Presents a case history of a 73-yr-old man with depersonalization disorder who responded favorably to treatment with fluoxetine, a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. S reported a history of panic attacks and feelings of unreality. Fluoxetine, 20 mg/day, was prescribed, and in 4 wks S reported improvement, which continued for 8 mo.

Carlson, E., Putnam, F.,Ross, C., Torem, M., Coons, P., Dill, D., Loewenstein, R. & Braun, B. (1993). Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale in screening for Multiple Personality Disorder: A multicenter study. The American journal of psychiatry. 150. 1030-6. 10.1176/ajp.150.7.1030.

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The Dissociative Experiences Scale has proved a reliable and valid instrument to measure dissociation in many groups, but its capacity to distinguish patients with multiple personality disorder from patients with other psychiatric disorders has not yet been conclusively tested. METHOD: A discriminant analysis was performed to classify 1,051 subjects as having or not having multiple personality disorder. Another discriminant analysis was performed on a subgroup of 883 subjects more closely representing patients in a typical psychiatric facility in terms of base rates of dissociative disorders. A cutoff score of 30 was also used to classify subjects, and Bayes’s theorem, which allows for the calculation of the positive predictive value and the negative predictive value of a screening test, was applied. RESULTS: According to discriminant analysis of the total study group, the scale’s sensitivity was 76% and its specificity was also 76%; according to discriminant analysis of the more representative subgroup, the scale’s sensitivity was 76% and its specificity was 85%. Use of the cutoff score of 30 produced similar results. Results of the application of Bayes’s theorem showed that 17% of the subjects scoring 30 or higher would actually have multiple personality disorder and 99% of those scoring less than 30 would not have multiple personality disorder. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that the Dissociative Experiences Scale performs quite well as a screening instrument to identify subjects with multiple personality disorder. In addition, the consistency of responses to scale items across centers indicates that the symptoms reported by patients with multiple personality disorder are highly similar across diverse geographic centers. This consistency supports the reliability and validity of the diagnosis of multiple personality disorder across centers.

On researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Bennett-G-Braun-73957132

Braun, B.G. (1993). Multiple Personality Disorder and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Similarities and Differences In: Wilson, J.P., Raphael, B. (eds), International Handbook of Traumatic Stress Syndromes. The Plenum Series on Stress and Coping. PP. 35-47. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-2820-3_3

Abstract: Multiple personality disorder (MPD) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were formulated in medical consciousness at about the same time that modern psychiatry was being molded by its Age of Giants. During this period of 1880 to 1920, MPD was pulled from its millennia-old identification with demonology and possession into the rational spheres of psychology (Ellenberger, 1970). The “cowardice” of warriors who relived scenes of terror in sweating nightmares acquired a new etiology in the trenches of World War I, namely, “shell shock,” later to become the “combat fatigue” of World War II, and the PTSD of today. All too often throughout history the MPD and PTSD patient shared similar fates: isolation or death for the “possessed,” rejection or execution for the craven. Until recently, however, it was not realized that MPD and PTSD had two similarities in etiology and phemonenology: origin in exposure of the victim to shattering psychological trauma—in childhood in the instance of MPD, in later life in PTSD—and the subsequent need for the person to dissociate as a coping mechanism.

Fichtner, C., Jobe, T. & Braun, B. (1994). Possible therapeutic window for serotonin reuptake inhibitors. The Journal of clinical psychiatry. 55. 36-8.

Abstract: Comments on JW Cain’s (see record 1993-10662-001) and other investigators’ findings of a therapeutic window for some serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine [5-HT]) reuptake inhibitors and expresses concern about the applicability of a therapeutic window for fluoxetine across larger numbers of patients. How the clinician decides whether to raise or lower fluoxetine is discussed.

Fichtner, C. & Braun, B. (1995). Hyperphagia and Weight Loss during Fluoxetine Treatment. The Annals of pharmacotherapy. 28. 1350-2. 10.1177/106002809402801205.

Abstract: To report the unusual coincidence of weight loss with increased appetite and food intake in a patient treated for depression on two separate occasions with fluoxetine. A 27-year-old woman experienced a modest weight loss during treatment for depression with fluoxetine. The weight loss was associated with a reported increase in daily caloric intake and consumption of a greater proportion of dietary fat than usual for the patient. The same patient was treated again with fluoxetine more than a year later and again experienced weight loss associated with an increase in appetite, caloric intake, and dietary fat consumption. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that often is associated with a modest weight loss when used for the treatment of depression, although it also has been reported to have the opposite effects of weight gain and hyperphagia in some patients. The effects on weight usually are assumed to be the result of primary effects on appetite, but the discrepancy between the appetite and weight changes in this case challenges the applicability of that assumption in all cases. The effects of fluoxetine on appetite and weight may be mediated by partially distinct mechanisms and might conceivably involve a direct metabolic effect in some patients.

Rossini, E. D., Schwartz, D. R., & Braun, B. G. (1996). Intellectual functioning of inpatients with dissociative identity disorder and dissociative disorder not otherwise specified. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 184(5), 289–294. https://doi.org/10.1097/00005053-199605000-00004

Abstract: Examined the intellectual functioning of 50 inpatients with multiple personality disorder (MPD) and 55 inpatients with dissociative disorder (DSD) not otherwise specified using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale–Revised (WAIS–R) as part of a comprehensive research protocol. No significant intellectual differences were found between MPD and DSD Ss on any major IQ summary score or on any of the age-adjusted empirical factor scores. A significant subsample of MPD Ss manifested abnormal intertest scatter on the WAIS-R verbal subtests, and this variability was attributed to subtle neuropsychological deficits on the Memory/Distractibility factor. Results suggest that dissociative patients might need to be evaluated for attention deficit disorder in addition to the range of dissociative symptoms in a comprehensive evaluation. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)

Putnam, F., Carlson, E., Ross, C., Anderson, G., Clark, P., Torem, M., Bowman, E., Coons, P, Chu, J, Dill, Diana, Loewenstein, R., & Braun, B. (1996). Patterns of Dissociation in Clinical and Nonclinical Samples. The Journal of nervous and mental disease. 184. 673-9. 10.1097/00005053-199611000-00004.

Abstract: Research has consistently found elevated mean dissociation scores in particular diagnostic groups. In this study, we explored whether mean dissociation scores for different diagnostic groups resulted from uniform distributions of scores within the group or were a function of the proportion of highly dissociative patients that the diagnostic group contained. A total of 1566 subjects who were psychiatric patients, neurological patients, normal adolescents, or normal adult subjects completed the Dissociative Experience Scale (DES). An analysis of the percentage of subjects with high DES scores in each diagnostic group indicated that the diagnostic group’s mean DES scores were a function of the proportion of subjects within the group who were high dissociators. The results contradict a continuum model of dissociation but are consistent with the existence of distinct dissociative types.

Available on Researchgate: https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Bennett-G-Braun-73957132

Braun, B., Schwartz, D., Kravitz, H., & Waxman, J. (1997): Frequency of EEG abnormalities in a large dissociative population. Dissociation: Volume 10, No. 2, p. 120-124

Abstract: A retrospective chart review was conducted to determine the frequency of EEG abnormalities, particularly those suggesting temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), among adult patients with dissociative disorders. EEGs from 160 inpatients with dissociative disorders who were treated at either of two sites specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of dissociative disorders were reviewed. EEGs were categorized as normal, possible drug effect, or abnormal. Overall, 7.5 % of patients had EEGs that were interpreted as abnormal but only two (1.25 %) of the entire sample had findings that suggested TLE. The two sites differed significantly in the percentage read as abnormal. According to these results, a small minority of patients with dissociative disorders have non-specific EEG abnormalities as well as more specific temporal lobe dysrhythmias. However, the population and context in which the dissociation–epilepsy association is explored will influence the outcome of any attempt to resolve the question regarding the relationship.

https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1827/Diss_10_2_7_OCR_rev.pdf?sequence=4&isAllowed=y

Schwartz, D.R. & Rossini, E.D. & Braun, B.G. & Stein, G.M.. (1997). Factor analytic investigation of the WAIS-R among patients with dissociative psychopathology. Dissociation. 10. 54-57.

Abstract: The factor structure of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised (WAIS-R) was examined among 133 participants diagnosed with a dissociative disorder. The results of two and three factor orthogonal solutions with varimax rotation were obtained. The two and three factor solutions were consistent with traditionalfactor analytic studies with Verbal Comprehension and Perceptual Organization in the two factor solution, and Verbal Comprehension, Perceptual Organization, and Freedom from Distractibility in the three-factor solution. This is the only factor analytic investigation using the WAIS-R to study a dissociative population.

https://scholarsbank.uoregon.edu/xmlui/bitstream/handle/1794/1835/Diss_10_1_8_OCR_rev.pdf

Frischholz, E.J., Braun, B.G., Sachs, R.G., Schwartz, D.R., Lewis, J., Shaeffer, D. Westergaard, C., & Pasquotto, J. (2014). Construct Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale: II. Its Relationship to Hypnotizability. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 57:2, 102-109, DOI: 10.1080/00029157.2015.967056

Abstract: Undergraduates (n = 311) who volunteered to participate in an experiment on “Hypnotizability and Personality” filled out several personality questionnaires (including the Dissociative Experiences Scale; DES), were administered the Harvard Group Scale of Hypnotic Susceptibility (HGSHS), and completed a self-rating of hypnotizability. The DES overall score correlated significantly with the HGSHS summary score (r(309) = .12, p < .05, two-tailed) and with subject’s self-rating of hypnotizability (r(309) = .13, p < .05, two-tailed). The magnitude of these correlations was similar to that observed in a previous study (.14 & .18) and is also similar in magnitude to the correlations typically observed between the HGSHS and the Tellegen Absorption Scale. The potential clinical implications of these findings are discussed.

Frischholz, E. J., Lipman, L. S., Braun, B. G., & Sachs, R. (2015). Suggested posthypnotic amnesia in psychiatric patients and normals. The American journal of clinical hypnosis, 57(2), 110–121. https://doi.org/10.1080/00029157.2015.967059

Abstract: The present study examined both quantitative and qualitative hypnotizability differences among four psychiatric patient groups (dissociative disorder (n = 17), schizophrenic (n = 13), mood disorder (n = 14), and anxiety disorder (n = 14) patients), and normals (college students (n = 63)). Dissociative disorder patients earned significantly higher corrected total scores on the Stanford Hypnotic Susceptibility Scale, Form C (mean = 7.94), than all other groups. Likewise, dissociative disorder patients initially recalled significantly fewer items when the posthypnotic amnesia suggestion was in effect (mean = .41) and reversed significantly more items when the suggestion was canceled (mean = 3.82) than all other groups. In contrast, schizophrenic patients recalled significantly fewer items when the amnesia suggestion was in effect (mean = 1.85) and reversed significantly fewer items when it was canceled (mean = .77) than the remaining groups. This qualitative difference between schizophrenic patients and the other groups on the suggested posthypnotic amnesia item was observed even though there were no significant quantitative differences between groups in overall hypnotic responsivity.