DES: Dissociative Experiences Scale
28-item self-report measure of dissociation. Score 0–100 (mean of items); ≥30 warrants clinical evaluation. Covers amnesia, depersonalization, and absorption. Public domain. Bernstein & Putnam (1986).
What is the Dissociative Experiences Scale?
The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) was developed by Eve Bernstein Carlson and Frank Putnam at the National Institute of Mental Health in 1986, and revised as the DES-II in 1993. It is the most widely used research scale for measuring dissociation, with thousands of citations in the trauma, PTSD, and dissociative disorders literature.
Each of the 28 items asks respondents to indicate how often (0–100%, in 10% increments) certain dissociative experiences occur when not under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The DES score is the mean of all 28 responses, yielding a total score from 0 to 100. Items cover three empirically derived subscales: Amnesic Dissociation, Depersonalization/ Derealization, and Absorption.
A score of ≥30 is the commonly cited clinical threshold, suggesting the need for more full evaluation for a dissociative disorder. Scores below 20 reflect levels typical of the general population. The DES is in the public domain and free for clinical and research use.
For each item, slide to indicate the percentage of time the experience applies to you when not under the influence of substances.
Educational reference only. Cannot diagnose or replace clinical evaluation.
DES Score Interpretation
Carlson & Putnam (1993). Score = mean of all 28 item responses (0–100%). A score ≥30 is a commonly used clinical screening threshold.
Track Dissociation and Trauma Outcomes in HiBoop
DES alongside PCL-5 and IES-R, automated scoring and longitudinal tracking to monitor dissociation and PTSD symptoms across your patient panel.
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