Research Projects
The Center focuses on clinical effects of psychological trauma, diagnoses of trauma-related disorders, and cultural factors, which impact the way people cope with post-traumatic symptoms.
Qualitative Analysis of Phenomena and Symptoms Associated with Possession
The word ‘possession’ relates to change in behavior and the sense of identity, attributed to supernatural forces. The ‘possessed’ often seek help from exorcists to take back control of their lives. Nevertheless, the reason for the irratic behavior can be a result of traumatic experience, including emotional, physical or sexual abuse. Thus, the question arises – do 'possessed' need spiritual or psychological help? Researchers from SWPS University will conduct psychological assessments of people who report being ‘possessed’, in order to compile a systematic descriptoin of the phenomena, the accompanying symptoms and the strategies people use to regain a sense of control over their behavior.
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Interpretative phenomenological analysis of depersonalization and derealization states in clinical and nonclinical groups
Most people may experience altered states of consciousness, such as depersonalization or derealization. These phenomena involve feeling separated from one's own body and mind or experiencing the environment as unreal or dream-like. These states may result from physical exhaustion, using substances, trance techniques or be the aftermath of traumatic events. Clinicians must be able to differentiate depersonalization and derealization in healthy people from the pathological forms of these episodes. Researchers from SWPS University study these complex phenomena to help healthcare professionals recognize the different forms of depersonalization and derealization to understand them in relation to various clinical presentations.
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