In a Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) system, "littles" typically refer to alters who have child-like characteristics, emotions, and behaviors. They are called "littles" because they often present as young children or adolescents within the internal system of the individual with DID. Littles may have age-regression experiences, meaning they may feel and act as if they are younger than their physical age or the body's current age.
Littles can take different forms, and their age or developmental stage within the internal system may vary. There are two main types of littles:
Core Littles: Core littles are alters who were fronting (taking control of the body and interacting with the outside world) during the traumatic events that led to the development of DID. These alters hold the emotions, memories, and experiences related to the trauma. As a result, they often hold onto the age and developmental stage they were at the time of the trauma. For example, if a traumatic event occurred when the person was six years old, a core little might present as a six-year-old within the DID system.
Introject Littles: Introject littles are alters who represent the characteristics of other adult alters but in a child-like form. These alters "introject" the traits, emotions, and memories of adult alters and express them as littles. For example, if an adult alter is protective and nurturing, an introject little might embody those qualities but in a younger and more child-like manner.
It's important to understand that DID is a complex and unique disorder, and the experiences of alters can vary significantly from one individual to another. Some systems may have a mix of core littles, introject littles, and other types of alters, each with their own distinct experiences, memories, and ages within the internal system.
The experiences of individuals with DID are deeply personal, and it's crucial to approach the topic with sensitivity, respect, and understanding. If you or someone you know is dealing with DID or related symptoms, seeking support from a qualified mental health professional experienced in working with dissociative disorders can be immensely helpful in understanding and navigating the condition.