The term "multiple personality" is an older and less accurate term that was used in the past to refer to what is now known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). DID is a complex mental health condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states within the same individual. These distinct identities are commonly referred to as "alters" or "alternate personalities."
People with DID experience disruptions in their identity, memory, and consciousness that can lead to gaps in memory and a lack of continuity in their sense of self. These identity disruptions are often a coping mechanism developed in response to severe and prolonged trauma, especially during childhood. The dissociative aspect of the disorder refers to the way in which the person's mind disconnects from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity to protect themselves from the overwhelming emotional pain of the traumatic experiences.
Each alter in DID may have its own name, personal history, characteristics, and way of interacting with the world. Alters can vary in age, gender, language, and even physical abilities. Switching between alters can be sudden and can result in significant changes in behavior and self-perception.
It's important to note that DID is a complex and often controversial disorder. The experiences of individuals with DID can be diverse and unique, and there is ongoing research to better understand the condition and how to best support those affected by it. Treatment usually involves therapy, particularly specialized approaches such as trauma-focused therapy and techniques aimed at enhancing communication and collaboration among the different alters to promote integration and improve functioning.