Regarding your second question, it's essential to clarify that the term "multiple personality disorder" is outdated. The correct and current term for this condition is "Dissociative Identity Disorder" (DID). DID is a complex and rare dissociative disorder characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states (also known as alters) within an individual. These different personality states may have their unique characteristics, memories, and behaviors.
Signs to look for when someone may have Dissociative Identity Disorder include:
Amnesia: Frequent memory gaps or inability to recall important personal information, events, or daily activities.
Identity Confusion: Frequent confusion about one's identity or self-image.
Distinct Alters: Evidence of different personality states, often with unique names, ages, genders, voices, and mannerisms.
Loss of Time: The person may experience "lost time," where they are unaware of chunks of time during which their alters may be active.
Depersonalization and Derealization: Feelings of detachment from oneself (depersonalization) or feeling as if the external world is not real or distorted (derealization).
Changes in Behavior and Skills: Alters may have different skills, interests, and behaviors that are not consistent with the person's overall life history.
History of Trauma: Many individuals with DID have a history of significant trauma, typically occurring in childhood, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
It's crucial to note that DID is a complex and often misunderstood disorder. The diagnosis and treatment of DID require expertise and should be carried out by qualified mental health professionals, such as psychologists or psychiatrists, with experience in working with dissociative disorders.
If you suspect that someone you know may have DID or are experiencing significant psychological distress, it's essential to encourage them to seek professional help. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can lead to improved outcomes and better quality of life.