Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) were two terms used to describe similar phenomena in the past, but they are now understood as referring to the same condition. The term "Multiple Personality Disorder" was used before the release of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) in 1994 when the condition was officially renamed "Dissociative Identity Disorder."
The name change was made to more accurately reflect the nature of the condition and to remove some misconceptions associated with the term "multiple personality." DID is classified as a dissociative disorder, characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states, also known as "alters." Each alter can have its own unique identity, memories, and behavior patterns.
The primary features of Dissociative Identity Disorder include:
Dissociation: This refers to a disruption or discontinuity in the normal integration of consciousness, memory, identity, and perception of the environment.
Multiple Identities: A person with DID experiences the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities, often referred to as "alters." Each alter may have its own name, personal history, and characteristics.
Amnesia: Individuals with DID often experience gaps in memory that are not consistent with ordinary forgetfulness. These memory gaps usually occur during switches between alters or during traumatic events.
Distress or Impairment: The condition leads to significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.
The exact cause of DID is not entirely understood, but it is believed to develop as a response to severe and repeated trauma, especially during childhood. The dissociation is thought to be a coping mechanism that helps the individual compartmentalize traumatic experiences.
In summary, Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) are the same condition, but the former is the updated and more commonly used term in modern psychiatric practice.