NCJ Number
170806
Journal
Journal of Child Sexual Abuse Volume: 6 Issue: 3 Dated: (1997) Pages: 1-14
Date Published
1997
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This article describes reasons why therapists may hesitate to address the needs of children in the therapy of a parent with dissociative identity disorder/multiple personality disorder, and suggests several therapeutic interventions.
Abstract
Despite growing recognition of the significance of family issues in persons diagnosed as having dissociative identity disorder (formerly multiple personality disorder) (DID/MPD), the impact on the child living with a parent with DID/MPD has received little attention. In addition to describing reasons why therapists may hesitate to address the needs of children in the therapy of a parent with DID/MPD and suggesting therapeutic interventions, the article summarizes the literature supporting assessment of the children, and relates clinical observations on the potential impact of DID/MPD on children. The article notes the increasing recognition of child and adult dissociative disorders, the clearly established intergenerational nature of DID/MPD, and the risk for psychological disorders among children of DID/MPD clients, The article's goal is to encourage awareness of possible stressors in these children's lives and to promote assessment and early intervention. References