toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Dissociative identity disorder (multiple personality disorder)

Top of the page

Dissociative identity disorder (multiple personality disorder)

Dissociative identity disorder (in the past called multiple personality disorder) is a rare condition in which a person has two or more separate personalities. The person often does not know that the other personalities exist. And he or she cannot recall events that occur when the other personalities are active.

The condition is not due to substance use or another medical condition.

Dissociative identity disorder is likely linked to severe childhood trauma. The person's defense mechanism separates different aspects of his or her own personality in order to deal with the physical and emotional pain. Eventually, new "personalities" emerge and establish their own lifestyles in the same individual.

Professional counseling is usually the main treatment for this condition. The goal is to slowly merge the different aspects of the personalities together (integration).

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Nampa (208) 381-2222