Disassociative identity disorder
| Dissociative identity disorder | |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Multiple personality disorder |
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| An artist's interpretation of one person with multiple "dissociated personality states" | |
| Specialty | Psychiatry |
| Symptoms | At least two distinct and relatively enduring personality states, trouble remembering certain events |
| Complications | Suicide, self harm |
| Duration | Long-term |
| Causes | Childhood trauma, therapy induced |
| Diagnostic method | Based on clinical criteria |
| Differential diagnosis | Major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, PTSD, psychotic disorder, personality disorder, conversion disorder |
| Treatment | Supportive care, counselling |
| Frequency | ~2% of people |
| Classification | |
|---|---|
| External resources |
Dissociative identity disorder (DID), also known as multiple personality disorder, is a mental disorder characterized by at least two distinct and relatively enduring personality states. There is often trouble remembering certain events, beyond what would be explained by ordinary forgetfulness. These states alternately show in a person's behavior. Presentations, however, are variable. Associated conditions often include borderline personality disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, depression, substance misuse disorder, self-harm, or anxiety.
The cause is believed to be due to childhood trauma. In about 90% of cases there is a history of abuse in childhood, while other cases are linked to experiences of war or health problems during childhood. Genetic factors are also believed to play a role. An alternative hypothesis is that it is a by-product of techniques employed by some therapists, especially those using hypnosis. Before a diagnosis is made it should be verified that the person's condition is not better accounted for by substance abuse, seizures, imaginative play in children, or religious practices.
Treatment generally involves supportive care and counselling. The condition usually persists without treatment. It is believed to affect about 2% of the general population and 3% of those admitted to hospitals with mental health problems in Europe and North America. DID is diagnosed about six times more often in females than males. The number of cases increased significantly in the latter half of the 20th century, along with the number of identities claimed by those affected.
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