Definition of the word split off

The origin of the phrase "split off" can be traced back to the field of psychology, specifically the theory of dissociation. Dissociation is a psychological phenomenon that describes the disconnection or separation of a part of the personality from the main consciousness, resulting in a separate identity or altered state of consciousness. The term "split off" is used to describe a specific type of dissociation, where a part of the personality is detached from the main consciousness and becomes a separate entity. This separation can be caused by traumatic events, such as abuse or prolonged periods of stress, and can lead to the development of personality disorders, such as dissociative identity disorder (DID). The word "split" is used in this context because the separation between the main consciousness and the detached part of the personality is sudden and complete, much as a sheet of paper might be split down the middle when folded and then separated. The phrase "split off" is a more descriptive term for this process, as it emphasizes the complete separation and detachment of the split-off part from the main consciousness. In summary, the origin of the phrase "split off" can be traced back to the psychological theory of dissociation, and refers to the detachment of a part of the personality from the main consciousness, resulting in the development of a separate identity or altered state of consciousness.