An alleged murderer who is facing trial plans to plead not guilty by reason of insanity, citing a severe personality disorder. Which claim made in support of that plea is most likely to be met with widespread skepticism by personality disorder experts?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While dissociative identity disorder (often referred to as multiple personality disorder) is a recognized psychiatric diagnosis, it is controversial and often misunderstood. Many experts consider it over-diagnosed and believe that claimed cases are often the result of suggestion or pressure from mental health professionals or the legal system. Additionally, the idea that one personality could be responsible for a person's violent behavior is disputed by many. Therefore, the claim that the defendant has a "vicious" persona is likely to be met with skepticism by many personality disorder experts. The other claims (lack of empathy, paranoid ideation, and impulse control issues) are all symptoms that are commonly associated with various personality disorders and may be taken more seriously by experts in the field.

An Alleged Murderer Who Is Facing Trial Plans to Plead