Dualistic Wholism: A Theological Anthropological Construct for Dissociative Disorders

Psychiatrists and psychologists have studied the causes, context, and treatments of dissociative disorders. A theological viewpoint that considers the complete human nature, both material and immaterial, can offer a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges associated with dissociative issues. Therefore, the central thesis of this paper posits that dualistic wholism serves as an appropriate theological framework of human nature that provides a clear explanation and possible remedy for dissociative problems that occur as a response to trauma. This argument is based on the concept of human nature as a dualistic whole, a tenet from the core theological perspective that humans are created in God’s image. Dualism explains the possibility of body-soul disintegration in dissociation, while wholism explains the reason for distress associated with disintegration in dissociation. To demonstrate this, the paper will first discuss the factors involved in dissociative problems, including context and effects, using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and other research and literature to achieve this. After that, I will explore some possible theological considerations that apply to dissociation as a psychological problem to privilege dualistic holism as a better theological framework for understanding dissociative issues. Next, the paper will focus on dualistic holism, as proposed by John Cooper. Finally, I will make a case for the relevance of dualistic holism in studying dissociations, including suggested intervention frameworks that would enhance healing.