If a person is a "multiplicity," meaning they have Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD), but are not aware of it, it is referred to as being "unaware" or "undiagnosed." There are several reasons why someone with DID or OSDD may not be aware of their condition:
Amnesia between alters: In DID and OSDD, there is often amnesia between different personality states (alters). When one personality state is dominant, the others may not have conscious awareness of their existence or experiences. As a result, the person may not be aware of the presence of other alters or their dissociative experiences.
Internal communication barriers: Communication between alters is not always clear or direct. Some systems may have limited internal communication, making it difficult for alters to share information with each other or with the host identity (the primary identity). This lack of communication can contribute to the person's unawareness of their multiplicity.
Purposeful dissociation: Some alters may intentionally keep their existence hidden from the host identity to protect them from overwhelming or distressing information. They may do so as a way of shielding the host from trauma or painful memories.
Lack of understanding or misinterpretation: Some individuals with DID or OSDD may experience gaps in memory or unexplained shifts in their behavior but may not recognize these as dissociative experiences. They might attribute memory lapses to forgetfulness or other factors, rather than considering the possibility of dissociation.
Coping mechanism: Dissociation, including the lack of awareness of alters, can serve as a coping mechanism to deal with overwhelming emotions, traumatic experiences, or difficult life circumstances. This dissociation can effectively "hide" the existence of other identities from the host.
Stigma and fear: Due to the stigma surrounding dissociative disorders, some individuals may actively avoid or deny the possibility of having DID or OSDD, fearing judgment, disbelief, or negative consequences.
Being unaware of one's multiplicity can be both a protective mechanism and a barrier to seeking appropriate help and support. When someone with DID or OSDD remains unaware of their condition, they might struggle with unexplained symptoms, difficulties in daily life, and confusing or distressing experiences without understanding the underlying cause.
It is crucial for individuals who suspect they might have DID or OSDD to seek professional evaluation and diagnosis from a mental health provider experienced in dissociative disorders. An accurate diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic interventions can help individuals better understand their experiences, enhance communication within their system, and work toward integration and healing.