Dissociative Identity Disorder

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Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly known as Multiple Personality Disorder, is a disorder in which two or more distinct identities alternate in controlling a person’s consciousness and behavior (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2011). If not diagnosed and treated in the early stages of development the alter personalities may begin to fight for control of the body (Pica, 1999). This may occur because the alternate personalities have become an equal part of the person and every alter cannot always be in control. Although DID is more frequently diagnosed in the late teens and early adult years, most diagnoses occur 5-10 years after the onset of symptoms (Slogar, 2011). Moreover, DID appears to be more prevalent in females, those who have a close relative who have DID, and generally occurs during the developmentally sensitive stages of childhood.
Firstly, someone who has developed DID may be more likely to pass it down to their children. This is done through genetics, as well as similar actions, such as alcoholism, abuse (physical or emotional), etc. For example, if someone was abused as a child, they are statistically more likely to become an abuser as well, the same pattern is in place for DID. If someone was abused as a child and developed DID, they are more likely to abuse their child who in turn is more susceptible to developing the disorder as well. This occurs because children learn how to behave by watching others. They learn from certain individuals more than others, such as their parents and thus repeat the actions of the parents. It was concluded that “...there is evidence that people with trauma disorders have higher rates of alcoholism, chronic medical illnesses, and abusiveness in succeeding generations.” (Sidran Found...

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Pica , M. (1999). The evolution of alter personality states in dissociative identity disorder. Psychotherapy, 36, 404-415.
Ruddy, N., Farley, T., Nymberg, J., & Hayden, K. (1994). Multiple personality disorder in primary care: A collaboration. Family Systems Medicine, 12(3), 327-338. doi: 10.1037/h0089056
Slogar, S. Dissociative Identity Disorder: Overview and Current Research - Student Pulse. Academic Articles. Online Academic Journal - Student Pulse. Retrieved October 21, 2013, from http://www.studentpulse.com articles/525/dissociative-identity- disorderoverview-and-current-research
Traumatic Stress Institute. Sidran: Help for Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) and dissociation.. PTSD and Dissociation Resources for Survivors, Supporters and Professionals. Retrieved October 21, 2013, from http://www.sidran.org/sub.cfm? contentID=75§ionid=4

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