In Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Otherwise Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD), the inner world refers to the complex internal landscape where alters (also known as dissociative identities) interact and reside. In the inner world, alters can have their own experiences, thoughts, and behaviors, much like how individuals in the outer world have their own experiences while co-existing in the physical reality.
As the inner world is a construct of the mind and exists within the realm of dissociative experiences, anything that happens there typically does not have a direct impact on the external physical world, including the host (the person whose body is primarily controlled) or any alter that is currently fronting (controlling the body and interacting with the external world).
This means that if alters in the inner world engage in activities like drinking, it would generally not affect the host or any other alter that is currently fronting in the outer world. Similarly, any actions or experiences in the inner world are distinct from those in the external world.
It's essential to understand that the inner world is a subjective and individual experience, and it can vary significantly from person to person with DID/OSDD. Each system (the collective term used to describe all the alters within a person) may have different rules, abilities, and limitations within their inner world.
However, it's important to keep in mind that while the inner world experiences are separate from the external world, individuals with DID/OSDD may still face challenges, and their experiences may be influenced by their inner system dynamics. Therapy and support are crucial in helping individuals navigate and integrate these complex experiences and identities.