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Structured interview data on 102 cases of multiple personality disorder from four centers
C A Ross1, S D Miller, P Reagor
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|May 1, 1990
Summary
This study on multiple personality disorder found consistent clinical features across 102 patients, with 95.1% reporting childhood abuse. Dissociative disorder symptoms were stable and predictable, indicating a consistent profile for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Clinical Neuroscience
Background:
- Multiple personality disorder, now known as dissociative identity disorder, is a complex mental health condition.
- Understanding its core features is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Previous research has suggested variability in patient presentations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the consistency of clinical characteristics in patients diagnosed with multiple personality disorder.
- To identify common presenting features and symptom profiles across different patient cohorts.
- To determine if multiple personality disorder presents with a stable and predictable set of features.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Dissociative Disorders Interview Schedule for patient assessments.
- Interviewed 102 patients diagnosed with multiple personality disorder across four distinct clinical centers.
- Analyzed demographic and symptom data to identify commonalities and patterns.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of childhood physical and/or sexual abuse was reported (95.1%).
- Patients presented with consistent average symptom counts including somatic (15.2), Schneiderian (6.4), and dissociative experiences (41.4 on DES).
- Observed similarities in secondary disorder features and borderline personality disorder criteria.
Conclusions:
- Multiple personality disorder exhibits a stable and consistent clinical profile.
- The findings support the reliability of diagnostic criteria for dissociative identity disorder.
- Childhood trauma appears to be a significant and common factor in the development of the disorder.