Abstract:
While individual therapy is the primary treatment for multiple personality disorder (MPD} and dissociative disorder (DD) family interventions are necessary in many cases. A review of the relevant literature finds it lacking in three areas: a family systems perspective, an appreciation of the fundamental differences between individual and family therapy, and a clear position on the degree to which family sessions should focus on the MPD/DD symptoms. These shortcomings are discussed, a typical MPD/DD family configuration is described, and suggestions for effective family interventions are offered. While many therapists choose to provide both individual and family interventions in a case, it is argued here that this arrangement creates more problems than it solves. An alternative is the management of the two contrasting modalities by a treatment team.