Maladaptive Daydreaming Info Archive
2017-2026

In 2002, the concept of maladaptive daydreaming (MD) was introduced to describe a time-consuming absorption in fantasy that may cause distress and/or interfere with social, academic, vocational, and other critical areas of functioning. 

MD is an immersive form of daydreaming that creates a sense of presence in the fanciful fantasy world created.

There is evidence that MD is a dissociative disorder characterized by compulsive and addictive features. 

According to studies, MD is associated with dissociative absorption, ADHD, OCD, depression, and anxiety. Researchers have found that a subgroup of individuals with MD experienced adverse childhood experiences like emotional neglect or abuse, social anxiety, or isolation. This suggests that MD might be involved in emotional regulation.​​