Which of the following statements about dissociative identity disorder is true?

• A. It is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states within one individual.
• B. It is primarily caused by genetic mutations and inherited traits.
• C. Individuals with dissociative identity disorder typically have no memory gaps or periods of amnesia.
• D. It is the same as schizophrenia and shares identical symptoms.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). DID is a psychological condition characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identities within a single individual.
2. Step 2: Recognize that DID is not primarily caused by genetic mutations or inherited traits. Instead, it is often linked to severe trauma or abuse during early childhood, which leads to dissociation as a coping mechanism.
3. Step 3: Note that individuals with DID often experience memory gaps or periods of amnesia related to their different identities, which is a key feature distinguishing it from other disorders.
4. Step 4: Differentiate DID from schizophrenia. Although both are serious mental health disorders, schizophrenia involves symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, whereas DID involves multiple distinct identities and dissociative symptoms.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the true statement about DID is that it is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states within one individual.