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The characterological basis of multiple personality
1Philadelphia Psychoanalytic Institute, Pennsylvania Hospital 19139, USA.
American Journal of Psychotherapy
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is proposed as a distinct characterological entity, not merely a variant or comorbidity of other personality disorders. Its core defense mechanism involves dissociation, often linked to trauma and sexuality.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Psychoanalysis
Background:
- Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is debated in terms of state vs. trait characteristics.
- Existing theories link DID to narcissistic and borderline personality disorders.
- The concept of a "dissociative character" is introduced as a distinct entity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the characterological features of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID).
- To propose DID as a distinct characterological entity.
- To examine the role of dissociation, trauma, and sexuality in DID.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing theories on DID.
- Hypothesizing DID as a distinct "dissociative character."
- Analysis of defense mechanisms and altered states of consciousness.
Main Results:
- DID is best conceptualized as a distinct characterological entity.
- The "dissociative character" model explains DID through dissociation as a primary defense.
- Altered states of consciousness, trauma, and perverse sexuality contribute to identity formation in DID.
Conclusions:
- DID represents a unique characterological structure with dissociation as its predominant defense.
- Understanding the dual nature of dissociation aids psychodynamic treatment.
- Complex psychic structures in DID may allow for healthy ego development.