Dissociative Identity Disorder Frequently Asked Questions

There is no difference. MPD is the old name, DID is the new name, but the both refer to the exact same thing. This page will use the term DID.

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What is DID?

DID (dissociative identity disorder) is a survival tactic. It is the creative attempt of highly traumatized children to protect themselves from the trauma and abuse. When these children dissociate (block) trauma, their "compartments" of trauma become "separate personalities/parts within their one self". Only children have sufficient flexibility (and vulnerability) to adapt to trauma by means of creating alter personalities.

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But thats the same as schizophrenia right?

Absolutely not. Schizophrenia is a chronic form of psychosis due to a biochemical/genetic disorder of the brain. SCHIZOPHRENICS DO NOT HAVE OTHER PERSONALITIES. Schizophrenia is not caused by trauma, and does not involve amnesia and flashbacks.

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Is it real or are "multiples" just trying to get attention?

It is very real. Unfortunately it is also difficult to diagnose, and is often mistaken for other disorders. Also, as children multiples were told over and over and over not to tell what happened to them "or else", to keep everything a secret. This creates problems for diagnosis as well as important facts are often kept secret even from therapists.

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Are people with DID crazy?

No. DID is not like other disorders. It is not a chemical imbalance or form of psychosis. Its is a defense mechanism which worked very well to save the multiple's life during the abuse. The problem is that when the person finally escapes the abuse, DID, PTSD and the associated behaviors and beliefs can get in the way of a healthy and productive lifestlye.

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I heard somewhere that multiples are acually possessed, is that true?

No. While many religious leaders who are uneducated about DID may say this, and abusers may tell a multiple this to keep them from getting help, this simply is not true. DID is not caused by demonic possesion but is created by the abused child to help them survive.

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Can't you just stop being multiple? You're safe now after all.

While that sometimes seems like a desirable idea, it doesn't work that way. Part of the reason developing DID as a child works so well is that it keeps the child from remembering the abuse. The memories are all hidden away waiting for the time when it is safe. Once a multiple is safe, they have to process these very painful memories. This is a long process. Also, after the initial shock wears off, most multiples discover they don't want to stop being multiple, it is part of who they are.

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Click Here to Learn About Different Types of (Internal) Family Members