Dissociative Identity Disorder

A dubious diagnosis associated with the recovered memory movement in psychology. DID is a pattern of behavior characterized by the learned enactment of different identities, usually including psychologically wounded "inner children." These are claimed to have resulted from repressed childhood involvement in satanic ritual abuse, child porn rings, mind control experiments, or similar extremely severe abuse. The creation of personalities occurs hand-in-hand with the formation of the abuse narrative in the vast majority of cases. The process of memory/personality creation usually involves the suggestion of a sympathetic and charismatic therapist, but it can also occur within groups of "survivors" on the internet or in self-help groups. The process is likened to a cult, since participants often cut off contact with former friends and relatives who question the bizarre direction of therapy and instead form bonds with other recovered memory "survivors."