Dissociative Disorder is a broader category that encompasses various disorders characterized by disruptions in a person's consciousness, memory, identity, or perception of their surroundings. It is primarily related to a psychological defense mechanism known as dissociation, where a person mentally detaches from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity as a way to cope with overwhelming stress or trauma.
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a specific type of dissociative disorder. It was previously known as multiple personality disorder. DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identity states (also called alters) within the same individual. Each alter has its own unique set of thoughts, memories, emotions, and behaviors. These alters may take control of the person's behavior and consciousness at different times, resulting in memory gaps and amnesia when one alter is not aware of the actions and experiences of the others.
In summary:
Dissociative Disorder: This is a category of disorders that involve disruptions in consciousness, memory, identity, or perception due to dissociation. Other types of dissociative disorders include Dissociative Amnesia, Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder, and Other Specified Dissociative Disorder.
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID): This is a specific type of dissociative disorder characterized by the presence of multiple distinct identity states (alters) within the same person. Each alter has its own unique identity and may take control of the individual's behavior and consciousness at different times, leading to memory gaps and amnesia.