Why Is Dissociative Identity Disorder More Common In Females?
Dissociative Identity Disorder: An individual with DID often has two or more distinct identities or personality states, which are manifested at different times as well as being capable of assuming control over the person’s behavior; memory gaps and a sense of detachment from reality can be one of the consequences. According to this study, women are nine times more likely to have Dissociative Identity Disorder compared to their male counterparts.
Unveiling the Reality of Dissociative Identity Disorder
A severe kind of dissociation disorder is estimated to affect 1% to 1.5% people while it affects between 1%-5% at large. The development of this disorder results from severe traumas experienced mostly during childhood which make individuals separate themselves mentally from traumatic experiences (dissociate). It is on women who undergo more sexual abuse in their childhood hence frequently accused as the major reasons for DIDs outbreak than men.
Gender Disparities in Dissociative Identity Disorder
According to CDC, approximately 25 per cent girls and 13 per cent boys in America experience child sexual abuse thereby revealing that there is higher prevalence of sexual trauma among females as an important factor leading to gender disparity with respect to diagnosing DID. In many cases where there has been sexual abuse, repression of traumatic memories may lead into developing multiple personalities through which they respond to such overwhelming experiences. Societal context also comes into play since men experiencing dissociative identity disorders usually do not visit general health care settings but rather end up in criminal justice settings thus affecting reported prevalence rates for DID among males.
Treatment Approaches for Dissociative Identity Disorder
The mainstay treatment for this condition involves psychotherapy with an emphasis on ensuring communication among various personality states and addressing underlying traumatic memories; therapists employ cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) and other techniques in order to accomplish this. Understanding the significance of trauma especially during childhood is critical because DID is postulated to result from early abuse incidents which trigger formation of pseudo identities as mechanisms of self-preservation.
Supporting Individuals with Dissociative Identity Disorder
Relatives and friends have a major role in supporting those who live with someone suffering from dissociative identity disorder. Their support and understanding, patience, empathy, safe places for open communication can be greatly helpful in dealing with recovery and management process. Understanding the complexities of the condition, the impact of trauma and the importance of professional therapy enables individuals to effectively deal with the problems associated with DID hence providing meaningful help for victims.
In conclusion, Dissociative Identity Disorder is a complex mental health condition that significantly affects the lives of people living with it. Therefore if one can delve into its underlying causes, gender differences as well as effective treatment approaches, they will develop a better perspective on how to understand and support people having lived experiences like these by making mental healthcare more compassionate and informed.
News Source: thephoenixrc.com