DID vs. ID

Attribute	DID	ID
Definition	Dissociative Identity Disorder	Intellectual Disability
Cause	Often linked to severe trauma	Can be genetic or caused by brain injury
Symptoms	Multiple distinct identities or personality states	Limited intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior
Treatment	Therapy, medication, and support	Special education, therapy, and support services

Definition

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and Identity Disorder (ID) are two distinct psychological conditions that affect an individual's sense of self and identity. DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states, each with its own way of thinking, feeling, and behaving. These personality states may take control of the individual's behavior at different times. On the other hand, ID is a disorder in which an individual experiences a persistent and excessive sense of self-importance, grandiosity, and a lack of empathy for others.

Symptoms

The symptoms of DID include memory gaps, time loss, feeling disconnected from oneself, hearing voices in the head, and experiencing different personalities taking control of behavior. Individuals with DID may also experience depression, anxiety, and mood swings. On the other hand, the symptoms of ID include a sense of superiority, a need for admiration, a lack of empathy, and a tendency to exploit others for personal gain. Individuals with ID may also have a sense of entitlement and a belief that they are special and unique.

Causes

The causes of DID are believed to be linked to severe trauma experienced during childhood, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. The development of distinct personality states may be a coping mechanism to deal with the trauma and protect the individual from overwhelming emotions. On the other hand, the causes of ID are thought to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Individuals with ID may have experienced a lack of empathy and validation during childhood, leading to the development of a grandiose sense of self.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing DID can be challenging as the symptoms may be mistaken for other mental health conditions. A thorough evaluation by a mental health professional is necessary to differentiate DID from other disorders. The diagnosis of DID is based on the presence of distinct personality states, memory gaps, and a history of trauma. On the other hand, diagnosing ID involves assessing the individual's behavior, thoughts, and feelings to determine if they meet the criteria for the disorder, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).

Treatment

Treatment for DID typically involves psychotherapy, specifically a type of therapy called dissociative identity disorder treatment. This therapy aims to help the individual integrate their different personality states and develop coping strategies to manage symptoms. Medication may also be prescribed to address co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety. On the other hand, treatment for ID may involve therapy to address the individual's sense of self-importance and lack of empathy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication may be used to help the individual develop more adaptive ways of thinking and behaving.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with DID varies depending on the severity of the disorder and the individual's willingness to engage in treatment. With proper therapy and support, many individuals with DID can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. However, the recovery process may be long and challenging. On the other hand, the prognosis for individuals with ID may also depend on the individual's willingness to engage in treatment and make changes to their behavior. With therapy and support, individuals with ID can learn to develop more empathy and humility.