Experiences of Foreignness and Depersonalization in the Social Communication of Migrants in Denmark: A Two-Cases Design

This study examines the relationship between experiences of foreignness and dissociative disorders, in particular depersonalization and derealization (DP/DR), in the context of migration and cultural transitions. The theoretical framework is based on Alfred Schütz’s concept of the lifeworld and the notion of «finite provinces of meaning». The research question is: Can dissociative disorders contribute to forming the psychological basis for these finite provinces of meaning? An exploratory case study design is used. Due to its exploratory nature, our study is limited by the small number of cases included. Methodologically, the study combines phenomenological sociology with psychiatric concepts of dissociative disorders to better understand the connection between experiences of foreignness and dissociative reactions. The results show that the migrants in both cases experienced considerable cultural alienation and felt powerless in the face of institutional interventions. The effects of these interventions led to dissociative disorders. Findings support the hypothesis that dissociative experiences are not only reactions to foreignness, but can also form the basis of psychological coping mechanisms within a finite province of meaning. The study concludes that dissociative states play a crucial role in the formation and maintenance of finite provinces of meaning, as they function not only as a refuge from overwhelming external threats, but also as spheres in which the boundaries of identity and perception are stabilized. In this sense, they are a space that promotes both protection and isolation. Furthermore, finite provinces of meaning can be understood as a kind of incubator for transitional experiences in which new patterns of communication and perception can be tested and different self-images can be developed. The dialogue that the family counsellors had with the families in our case studies showed that this is possible.