Legal Definitions - fugue

Definition: Fugue (fyoog) is a type of dissociative disorder where a person appears to function normally but is actually in an abnormal state of consciousness. During a fugue state, a person may forget their identity, past memories, and personal information. They may also wander away from their home or workplace and have no recollection of how they got there.

• A woman suddenly disappears from her home and is found days later in a different city with no memory of how she got there or who she is.
• A man wakes up in a hotel room with no memory of how he got there or why he is there. He assumes a new identity and starts a new life.

These examples illustrate how a person in a fugue state can appear to function normally but is actually experiencing a dissociative episode. They may not remember their past or even their own identity, leading them to assume a new one. This can be a frightening and confusing experience for the person and their loved ones.