Dissociation and Embodiment in Young Adult Literature: What Authors Need to Consider in the Climax

Abstract

Dissociation is a common element used in Young Adult Literature, sometimes to heighten drama, complicate decisions, or add obstacles for the protagonist. Dissociation can be understood as a process of removing yourself from the present. Though milder forms of dissociation are harmless and even useful—such as daydreaming—it can become detrimental in its extremes (Winfrey and Perry 171). Trauma is often at the heart of a dissociative response. Though there are places in a story where dissociation is a useful narrative tool, its use can also be (and often is) counterintuitive. This is especially true in books that use dissociation as a main part of climactic action. If trauma is at the core of detrimental dissociation, embodiment is at the center of an ending that hopes for healing. This paper looks at the neurological and psychological roots behind dissociation and embodiment, and the way Young Adult writers can take mindful consideration as they choose how to position their character in the climax.