Introduction to Dissociative Identity Disorder

The diagnosis of dissociative identity disorder, formerly known as multiple personality disorder, remains controversial, despite its inclusion as an established diagnosis in psychiatry’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-IV).

Case Description and Treatment

This book consists, first, of the detailed description of the treatment of a patient whose syndrome of DID emerged in the course of therapy, by a psychoanalyst who entered into the therapy as a complete skeptic. The therapist’s willingness to explore the meaning and reality of the dramatic and at times bizarre presentation of this disorder in a prolonged and difficult treatment was accompanied by an eventual successful outcome.

Literature and Contemporary Perspectives

Using this case as a reference point, the author then provides a contemporary exploration of the literature about the authenticity of this diagnosis and approaches to its treatment.