Reading Room

Dissociative Identity Disorder/
Multiple Personality Disorder
FAQ (frequently asked questions)

page 3

What types of alters are there?

The typical alters that are found in a person with MPD include: a depressed, depleted host; a strong, angry protector; a scared, hurt child; a helper; and, an embittered internal persecutor who blames (or persecutes) one or more alters for the abuse that has been suffered. While there may be other types of alters in any given MPD individual, most of them will be variations on the theme of these 5 alters.

How common is MPD?

Although the data is not all in, the best estimate of the prevalence of MPD is that it approximates that of about 1% of the population. This estimate would translate into at least 2,000,000 cases in the U.S. alone.

Why so many?

Because MPD is directly linked to the prevalence of child abuse. And, unfortunately, child abuse is all too common.

How impaired is the person with MPD?

The range of impairment across different persons with MPD is best analogized to that of alcoholism. Impairment due to alcoholism a) ranges from skid row bums to high functioning senators, congressmen, and corporate executives; and, b) varies in any given alcoholic from one period of time to another as a function of binges, patterns of drinking, life stresses, etc. It is much the same as MPD. There are some multiples who are chronic state mental patients, others who undergo recurrent hospitalization due to self-destructive behavior, and many more who raise children, hold jobs, and may even be high-functioning lawyers, physicians, or psychotherapists.

How Does Being A Multiple Help?

If you are a multiple alters have, for the most part, been your good friends. They have come to your rescue, endured pain for you, and they have hidden lots of your feelings when it wasn't safe to have those feelings and when you couldn't find a safe person with whom to share them.

Is It Bad To Be A Multiple?

Certainly not. Being a multiple helps some to stay alive. It allows them to protect themselves and remain sane in the face of severe abuse. It allows them to endure the bad times and to keep their heart and soul safe from their abusers.

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