This paper examines Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) and how it is potentially rooted in childhood experience. The paper provides an analysis of the characteristics of DID and the history of the diagnosis as well as current conceptualizations of the disorder. The paper explores current understandings of the causes of the disorder and highlights various findings that indicate the potential role of childhood experiences and trauma in DID. Reasons for linking DID with childhood experiences are discussed; these include the long-lasting effects of trauma that occurs during the developmental stage of childhood. The paper also analyzes the comorbidity of Dissociative Disorders with other psychological and/or health conditions. Integrative treatment that addresses the complexity and the rarity of the DID is also reviewed. The paper concludes with an understanding of DID as being significantly connected to early traumatic experiences that may interact with potential biological vulnerability and/or the individual’s social environment. The analysis calls for further research into DID.
