From the Research
The prevalence of dissociative identity disorder (DID) is estimated to be approximately 1% of the general population, as reported in the most recent and highest quality study 1. This condition, previously known as multiple personality disorder, is more common than many people realize but remains underdiagnosed in clinical settings. Some key points to consider about DID include:
- The disorder typically develops in childhood as a response to severe trauma, particularly repeated abuse or neglect, though it often isn't diagnosed until adulthood 1.
- Many individuals with DID spend an average of 7 years in the mental health system before receiving an accurate diagnosis, as symptoms can overlap with other conditions like PTSD, borderline personality disorder, and complex trauma disorders.
- DID is diagnosed more frequently in women than men, with some research suggesting a ratio of 9:1, though this may reflect reporting and diagnostic biases rather than true gender differences.
- The prevalence may be higher in psychiatric inpatient settings, with some studies reporting rates between 5-20% among psychiatric patients. It's essential to note that the diagnosis of DID can be challenging, and symptoms should be checked regularly during psychiatric interviews to prevent misdiagnosis 1. Recent studies have also highlighted the importance of adapting treatment approaches, such as dialectical behavior therapy, to address the unique needs of individuals with DID 2. Additionally, emerging neurobiological findings in DID provide essential information that can be used to improve treatment outcomes 3. Overall, accurate diagnosis and treatment of DID are crucial to improving the quality of life for individuals with this condition, and further research is needed to optimize treatment approaches.