Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), formerly Multiple Personality Disorder, occurs as a result of emotional, physical and sexual assault usually started in infancy.
The criteria for DID according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) involves four concepts for diagnosis:
- The patient has at least two distinct identities or personality states. Each of these has its own relatively lasting pattern of sensing , thinking about, and relating to self and environment.
- At least two of these personalities repeatedly assume control of the patient’s behavior.
- Common forgetfulness cannot explain the patient’s extensive inability to remember important personal information.
- This behavior is not directly caused by substance use (as in alcoholic blackouts) or by a general medical condition.