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

• A. Individuals with dissociative identity disorder rarely experience memory gaps or amnesia.
• B. Individuals with dissociative identity disorder typically exhibit two or more distinct personality states.
• C. Dissociative identity disorder is classified as a mood disorder in the DSM-5.
• D. Dissociative identity disorder is primarily characterized by persistent delusions and hallucinations.

Answer: (B)

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 individuals with DID often experience memory gaps or amnesia related to everyday events, personal information, or traumatic events, which is a key feature of the disorder.
3. Step 3: Know the classification of DID in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). DID is classified under dissociative disorders, not mood disorders.
4. Step 4: Differentiate DID from disorders primarily characterized by psychotic symptoms such as persistent delusions and hallucinations, which are typical of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, not DID.
5. Step 5: Based on these clarifications, identify the true statement: Individuals with dissociative identity disorder typically exhibit two or more distinct personality states.