The story of "Sybil" and her multiple personality disorder (MPD) was not a hoax, but it has been subject to controversy and criticism over the years. "Sybil" is a book written by Flora Rheta Schreiber, first published in 1973, and it tells the story of a woman named Shirley Ardell Mason, who was diagnosed with MPD (now known as Dissociative Identity Disorder or DID).
The book claims that Sybil had 16 distinct personalities that emerged as a result of severe childhood trauma, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The case gained widespread attention and became one of the most famous cases of DID, leading to increased awareness and interest in the disorder.
However, in the years following the book's publication, some critics raised concerns about the validity of the diagnosis and the accuracy of the events described in the book. There were allegations that the therapist treating Sybil, Dr. Cornelia Wilbur, had influenced her patient and even encouraged the emergence of multiple personalities through hypnosis and suggestion. Some critics argued that the whole case might have been a case of "iatrogenesis," which means that the therapist inadvertently created or worsened the symptoms through therapeutic techniques.
Despite the controversies, it is essential to remember that dissociative disorders, including DID, are real psychological conditions recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). People with DID experience disruptions in their identity, memory, and consciousness, often as a response to severe and prolonged trauma during childhood.
In recent years, the field of psychiatry and psychology has evolved, and there is a better understanding of dissociative disorders, including DID. Still, the case of Sybil and the book's portrayal of it have been debated and critiqued, leading to questions about the role of the therapist in influencing the reported symptoms. As with any case, it is essential to approach it with critical thinking and take into account the latest scientific knowledge.