Mysticism versus Pathology: A Qualitative Study on Trance and Possession Disorder in Rural India

Abstract

The trance and possession disorder, a subtype of Dissociative (Conversion) Disorder in the ICD-10 can be understood as involving a temporary disintegration of personal identity and the complete awareness of the surroundings. It is seen to entail various possession-forms such as a changed personality, voice, tone, or gestures, with an individual being possessed by spirits of ghosts, ancestors, gods, etc. who can capture control over mind, body, and behavior. The aim of this study is to understand the underlying processes shaping up the underpinnings of the manifestations of trance and possession disorder in the Rural Indian context. The study uses a qualitative paradigm with being exploratory in nature. A total of 8 participants were recruited for the purpose of the study between the ages 20-60 years, diagnosed with trance and possession disorder. The study can be seen as divided into two phases, the first phase entailing semi-structured interviews with them and the second phase consisting of analysis of the data using the Thematic analysis method. The results of the study interestingly uncovered various unique themes. There were five main themes that emerged in the study including: Phenomenon of cultural rooting and social sanction, A longing to be seen and heard, Intergenerational Transmission Through Learning, Pre-post aura experiences and, Possession a people pleaser. The current study explored various aspects of trance and possession disorder in the rural-Indian context, providing a rich account of the nuances of trance and possession disorder, offering a strong ground for further exploration and research. While the five themes formulated in the study encompass a wide range of manifestations of this disorder, there is still a major pool of mechanisms and aspects remaining to be shared and explored.