In Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), which was previously known as Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD), the distinct identities or personality states that can emerge are commonly referred to as "alters" (short for "alter egos" or "alternate identities"). However, not all alters necessarily have distinct names.
While some alters in DID might have unique names, other alters may be identified by numbers, roles, or simply referred to as "the host" (the core identity that is most present and carries the original name of the individual). The naming and identification of alters can vary widely from one individual with DID to another.
In some cases, alters may not have distinct names or may prefer to be referred to by their function or characteristics. For example, an alter who primarily exists to protect the individual from harm may be called "the protector" rather than having a separate name. Some alters may only be known by their feelings, memories, or roles within the system.
It's essential to remember that DID is a complex and individualized disorder, and each person's experience with alters can be different. The way alters are named and identified can depend on the person's internal experiences, their coping mechanisms, and the dynamics within their dissociative system. As such, the names and identities of alters in DID can be diverse and may evolve over time as the individual progresses in therapy and understanding of their condition.