What is another name for multiple personality disorder?

• A. Dissociative identity disorder
• B. Factitious illness
• C. Adjustment reaction
• D. Multiple psychoses

Answer: (A)

The term "multiple personality disorder" has been reclassified in recent years as "dissociative identity disorder." This name change reflects a deeper understanding of the condition, which involves the presence of two or more distinct personality states or an experience of possession. Each personality state may have its own name, history, and characteristics, often resulting from severe trauma during early development. The new terminology emphasizes the dissociative aspects of the disorder, indicating that individuals are not merely exhibiting different personalities but are experiencing a fragmentation of their identity.

In contrast, the other options relate to different psychological conditions or phenomena. Factitious illness involves a person intentionally producing or feigning symptoms for psychological reasons. An adjustment reaction refers to a stress-related condition in which a person struggles to cope with or adapt to a significant life change. Multiple psychoses would imply the presence of various psychotic disorders but does not accurately describe the specific nature of dissociative identity disorder. Thus, the correct name clearly and accurately encompasses the experiences associated with the condition.