The client diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder (DID) switches personalities when confronted by the nurse about inappropriate actions. The nurse recognizes that this dissociation serves which function?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dissociation in DID serves to isolate painful events so that the person's awareness and anxiety are decreased. This allows the person to avoid the distress associated with traumatic events and protects them from overwhelming emotions. Switching personalities may be triggered by internal or external stressors, such as the nurse confronting the client about inappropriate actions. The purpose of the switch is to shift attention away from the distressing situation and protect the person from further psychological harm. Secondary gain, exploring guilt, and establishing personality boundaries are not primary functions of dissociation in DID.

The Client Diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) Switches Personalities