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Validity of the Dissociative Experiences Scale in screening for multiple personality disorder: a multicenter study
E B Carlson1, F W Putnam, C A Ross
1Department of Psychology, Beloit College, WI 53511.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|July 1, 1993
Summary
The Dissociative Experiences Scale effectively screens for multiple personality disorder. It shows good sensitivity and specificity, with consistent results across diverse centers, supporting its diagnostic validity.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- The Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) is a validated measure for dissociation.
- Its ability to differentiate multiple personality disorder (MPD) from other psychiatric conditions requires further testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the DES in identifying individuals with multiple personality disorder.
- To assess the reliability and validity of MPD diagnosis across different geographic centers.
Main Methods:
- Discriminant analysis was used to classify 1,051 subjects for MPD presence.
- A subgroup analysis (n=883) mirrored typical psychiatric facility demographics.
- Bayes's theorem calculated positive and negative predictive values using a DES cutoff score of 30.
Main Results:
- Discriminant analysis yielded 76% sensitivity and 76% specificity for the total group.
- The representative subgroup showed 76% sensitivity and 85% specificity.
- Bayes's theorem indicated 17% of those scoring ≥30 had MPD, while 99% scoring <30 did not.
Conclusions:
- The DES functions as a robust screening tool for identifying potential cases of multiple personality disorder.
- Consistent symptom reporting across centers supports the reliability and validity of MPD diagnoses.
- The scale aids in distinguishing MPD from other dissociative disorders.