Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Department

Psychology & Gerontology

First Advisor

Alvin Farmer

Abstract

Depersonalization/derealization disorder (DPDR) is a dissociative condition marked by persistent feelings of detachment from one’s thoughts, body, or external environment. Although DPDR most commonly emerges during late adolescence and early adulthood, it remains relatively understudied within college student populations, despite its potential consequences for psychological well-being and interpersonal functioning. The present study examines the association between depersonalization/derealization symptoms, mental health, and relationship functioning among university students. Specifically, this research investigates whether students reporting higher levels of depersonalization/ derealization symptoms differ from those with lower symptom levels in depression, anxiety, stress, and perceived social support. Participants will be undergraduate students recruited from Northeastern Illinois University who complete an anonymous online survey administered via Qualtrics. Depersonalization/derealization symptoms will be measured using the Cambridge Depersonalization Scale, along with validated self-report measures assessing depression, anxiety, stress, and perceived social support. Group comparisons will be conducted to evaluate differences between students with high and low depersonalization/derealization symptom levels. It is anticipated that higher symptom levels will be associated with greater psychological distress and lower perceived social support.

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