The terms "split personality" and "dual personality" are sometimes used colloquially, but they are not accurate or appropriate descriptions of any recognized psychological condition. The correct term for the phenomenon they may refer to is "Dissociative Identity Disorder" (DID), which was previously known as "Multiple Personality Disorder."
Let's clarify the terms:
Split Personality: This term is outdated and not used in contemporary psychology or psychiatry. It was once used to describe what is now known as Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). However, using the term "split personality" can perpetuate misconceptions and stigmatization, so it's best to avoid using it.
Dual Personality: The term "dual personality" is also misleading and not used in the context of any psychological diagnosis. If someone refers to a "dual personality," they might be attempting to describe a situation where an individual seems to exhibit two distinct identities or behaviors. In such cases, what they could be describing aligns more with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID).
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a complex dissociative disorder where an individual experiences two or more distinct identities or personality states (known as alters) that recurrently take control of their behavior. These alters may have their own unique memories, behaviors, and traits. It is essential to recognize DID as a valid and serious mental health condition and to avoid using terms that perpetuate misunderstanding or sensationalize the disorder.
If you encounter someone who appears to have symptoms similar to what might be described as a "split personality" or "dual personality," it's essential to encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional for proper evaluation and support. A qualified professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment if needed.