Abstract:
Due to the difficulty in detection of multiple personality disorder
(MPD), this dissociative disorder is frequently misdiagnosed and ineffectively treated. In this case report of MPD in a Hispanic woman, the author compares and contrasts her presentation of symptoms with those of the culturally accepted ataque de nervios, or "Puerto Rican syndrome. " It is theorized that the similarities may increase the incidence of misdiagnosis of MPD in Hispanics and it is recommended that the diagnosis of MPD be considered in Hispanics with histories of ataque.