The author has studied depersonalization phenopAena as a defense in our modern life in somewhat broader sense than the traditional concept.
As the sociocultural climate has been changing in rapid fashion. phenomenology and dynamics of the psychiatric symptoms are also constantly chancing.
Through his case study and literature survey, the author has identified three different conceptual levels of depersonalization as follows:
1) Adaptive depersonalzation;
a) at sensory level; Protective mechanism of CNS against bombardment of sensory stimuli in modern life, eg, "sensory shielding´
b) at cognitive level; one who lives without awareness of his inner-self, eg, self alienation´
2) Neurotic depersonalization; Traditional concept of depersonalization neurosis, yet much of its phenomenology and dynamics are changed considerably.
3) Defensive depersonalization; At the moment of sudden awareness of his inner-self, he gets so frightened that he is depersonalized, lest he become further disintegrated.
Rather typical cases to represent each category are presented, and phemenology, dynamics, theory, as well as social adaptive value of depersonalization, are discussed.
Self actualization or Tao are suggested as a thrapeutic goal for depersonalized individuals in order to overecome not only pathological anxiety, but also the ultimate anxiety of death.
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