Somer, E., Somer, L., & Jopp, D. S. (2016). Childhood antecedents and maintaining factors in maladaptive daydreaming.

Somer, E., Somer, L., & Jopp, D. S. (2016). Childhood antecedents and maintaining factors in maladaptive daydreaming. Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease, 204(6), 471–478. https://doi.org/10.1097/NMD.0000000000000507

Abstract

This study explored the fantasy activity of 16 individuals who were seeking online peer-support and advice for maladaptive daydreaming (MD). MD is an under-researched mental activity described as persistent vivid fantasy activity that replaces human interaction and/or interferes with important areas of functioning.

We employed a grounded theory methodology that yielded seven common themes presented as a sequential descriptive narrative about the nature, precursors, and consequences of MD. The presented “storyline” included the following themes: (1) daydreaming as an innate talent for vivid fantasy; (2) daydreaming and social isolation—a two-way street; (3) the role of trauma in the development of MD; (4) the rewards of daydreaming; (5) the insatiable yearning for daydreaming; (6) shame and concealment; (7) unsuccessful treatment attempts. A main conclusion of our study is that there is an urgent need for early identification of MD and its correct diagnoses in adulthood.

(PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved)

Further Information

Unfortunately, the full version of this paper isn’t available for free. You might find more details online if you’re interested.

If you’d like to learn more, the author has kindly given permission for his contact details to be shared. 

Eli Somer: eli.somer@me.com