What is the rare dissociative disorder characterized by two or more distinct and alternating personalities (formerly called multiple personality disorder)?

• A. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)
• B. Borderline Personality Disorder
• C. Schizophrenia
• D. Bipolar Disorder

Answer: (A)

Dissociative Identity Disorder is the best fit here. This condition involves two or more distinct identity states that alternate in control of behavior, often accompanied by gaps in memory for everyday events or personal information. The question’s description directly maps onto this pattern—distinct identities that seem to take turns—which is the hallmark of DID. It’s a dissociative disorder and is considered rare.

Think of how Borderline Personality Disorder centers on unstable self-image and relationships rather than separate, alternating identities. Schizophrenia features psychotic symptoms like delusions and hallucinations, not multiple identities. Bipolar Disorder centers on mood episodes—manic and depressive—without distinct identity states taking control.