Beere, Don2005-10-202005-10-201996-030896-2863https://hdl.handle.net/1794/1769p. 048-059Seven descriptions of externally precipitated switching from one personality to another were analyzed using experimental phenomenology. The results, cross-checked with nine other descriptions, indicate that switching occurs when reality events are proceeding toward a possible outcome of significance to a non-executive alter. As the outcome becomes more realizable, the non-executive alter becomes more energized and might influence the executive alter covertly to increase the likelihood of the outcome. When the outcome might really occur, intensity exceeds a threshold for the current executive alter and the non-executive alter takes control of the body. The process appears to be a loss of control for the prior alter and an assumption of control by the second. The results suggest that identity is a more significant factor in switching than state or emotion. Switching seems not solely a defense nor a mechanism to cope with intolerably negative states.336538 bytesapplication/pdfen-USArticle