In controlled studies, non-specialised treatment that did not address dissociative self-states did not substantially improve DID symptoms, though there may be improvement in patients' other conditions. Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is a rare condition in which two or more distinct identities, or personality states, are present in—and alternately take control of—an individual. To be eligible for a diagnosis of DID, an individual must present with disruption of identity characterized by two or more distinct personality states, which may be described as an experience of possession.

Understanding the Context