In Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD), alters (distinct identity states within the same individual) can have different opinions and perspectives on various aspects of life, including other people. This can lead to internal conflicts within the system (the collection of alters within an individual). The way the system acts as a whole when different alters have conflicting opinions towards an outside person can vary depending on the system's internal dynamics and communication.
Here are some potential scenarios:
Consensus Decision-Making: In some systems, the alters may communicate and work together to reach a consensus on how to handle interactions with an outside person. They may discuss their opinions, feelings, and concerns, and try to find a compromise that represents the best interests of the system as a whole.
Dominant Alter: Some systems have one or more dominant alters who exert more influence over the others. In such cases, the opinion of the dominant alter may prevail, and the system may act based on their viewpoint when interacting with the outside person.
Co-Fronting or Blending: Co-fronting or blending occurs when multiple alters share the same level of awareness and control over the body at the same time. In such situations, the system may act based on a combination of opinions and responses from the co-fronting alters.
Switching: Switching involves one alter taking control of the body and consciousness, replacing the current fronter (the alter in control). If an alter with a strong opinion takes over, their perspective may dominate the system's actions while they are fronting.
Internal Conflict or Confusion: In some instances, the system may experience internal conflict or confusion when different alters' opinions clash. This can lead to emotional distress and difficulty making decisions or knowing how to act in certain situations.
It's important to understand that each DID or OSDD system is unique, and the internal dynamics can be complex. The way a system navigates conflicting opinions towards an outside person depends on factors such as communication between alters, the level of cooperation and understanding within the system, the presence of a designated mediator or peacemaker alter, and the level of integration and collaboration among alters.
Therapy for DID or OSDD often focuses on fostering internal communication, cooperation, and co-consciousness among alters to promote internal harmony and reduce internal conflicts. The goal is to help the system work together more effectively, understand each other's perspectives, and develop healthy coping strategies for managing external relationships and challenges. Ultimately, the well-being of the entire system is a priority, and therapy aims to facilitate healing and integration, when appropriate, to support the person's overall mental health and functioning.