Question about Multiple Personality Disorder (Dissociative Identity Disorder)?

Question

In everything that i have read about the personality disorder MPD (or Dissociative Identity Disorder) is specifically states that the two (or more) personalities are ALWAYS unaware of the other and often have memory loss when one takes control over the other. IS it possible for one personality to be aware of the other and remember the switching of control? Is this a different personality disorder or...? Any help will be GREATLY appreciated!!

Answer 1

Yes, it is.  It is called co-consciousness.  So for example, an adult personality state might be "aware" that a child personality state is out, but might not necessarily remember everything that the child personality state does.

DID clients have varying levels of co-consciousness.  Some are completely unaware that they have switched and what personality is out.  On the other hand, some DID clients totally know when they switch and who is out.

Answer 2

The presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states (each with its own relatively enduring pattern of perceiving, relating to, and thinking about the environment and self).

At least two of these identities or personality states recurrently take control of the person's behavior.

Inability to recall important personal information that is too extensive to be explained by ordinary forgetfulness.

The disturbance is not due to the direct physiological effects of a substance (e.g., blackouts or chaotic behavior during Alcohol Intoxication) or a general medical condition (e.g., complex partial seizures). Note: In children, the symptoms are not attributable to imaginary playmates or other fantasy play.

Ideally, patients with DID should be treated by a therapist with specialized training in dissociation. This specialized training is important because the patient's personality switches can be confusing or startling.

Some doctors will prescribe tranquilizers or antidepressants for DID patients because their alter personalities may have anxiety or mood disorders.

While not always necessary, hypnosis is a standard method of treatment for DID patients. Hypnosis may help patients recover repressed ideas and memories.

Alternative treatments that help to relax the body are often recommended for DID patients as an adjunct to psychotherapy and/or medication. These treatments include hydrotherapy, botanical medicine (primarily herbs that help the nervous system), therapeutic massage, and yoga. Homeopathic treatment can also be effective for some people. Art therapy and the keeping of journals are often recommended as ways that patients can integrate their past into their present life. Meditation is usually discouraged until the patient's personality has been reintegrated.

Answer 3

Theoretically it's possible and it's the same disorder, a disorder that happens to be in question, btw.

Answer 4

To tell you the truth i am not sure, but if this problem is affecting you i would go to a psychologist.  

Answer 5

Actually, your multiple personalities can have varying degrees of awareness of one another.  You might be better able to relate to one of your personalities if it is not associated with some kind of traumatic abuse but, on the other hand, the parts of your personality that are traumatized might stay hidden for the most part.  It is those hidden parts that it can be helpful and healing to connect with in a safe environment with someone who you trust.