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Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, A Critical Review of Neurobiological Findings, Psychological Models, and Emerging Treatment Strategies

Ahmed F. Alanazi *

1Department of Social Studies, College of Arts, King Faisal University, Al-ahsa, Saudi Arabia .

Corresponding author Email: ahmedaldhmashii@gmail.com


Depersonalization-derealization disorder (DPDR) is a dissociative disorder characterized by persistent or recurrent episodes of detachment from one's self (depersonalization) or surroundings (derealization), while reality testing remains intact. Affecting approximately 1-2% of the general population, DPDR remains underrecognized in clinical settings and is frequently misdiagnosed as anxiety or depression. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the current understanding of DPDR, including its diagnostic criteria, epidemiology, etiology, neurobiological underpinnings, and treatment approaches. Emerging evidence from neuroimaging studies points to a fronto-limbic inhibitory mechanism, whereby prefrontal regions suppress limbic and autonomic responses to emotional stimuli, resulting in the characteristic emotional numbing. The disorder is strongly associated with childhood interpersonal trauma, and cognitive-behavioral therapy currently represents the best-documented treatment approach. Pharmacological interventions have shown limited efficacy, though promising avenues are emerging. The paper synthesizes findings from phenomenological, neurobiological, and clinical studies to present an integrated model of DPDR and identifies priorities for future research.


Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy; Depersonalization; Derealization; Dissociative Disorders; Emotional Numbing; Fronto-Limbic Inhibition; Self-Awareness

Copy the following to cite this article:

Alanazi A. F. Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, A Critical Review of Neurobiological Findings, Psychological Models, and Emerging Treatment Strategies. Current Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities. 2026 9(2).

Copy the following to cite this URL:

Alanazi A. F. Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder, A Critical Review of Neurobiological Findings, Psychological Models, and Emerging Treatment Strategies. Current Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities. 2026 9(2). Available here: https://bit.ly/46tCGlZ


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