Occupational Therapy in the Treatment of Individuals with Multiple Personality Disorder

Abstract

Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) has been diagnosed with increasing frequency in the last ten years. It is no longer considered rare. A result of child abuse or trauma, MPD is a dissociative disorder which defends the child from the overwhelming experiences of abuse. In adulthood the client may present with amnesia, auditory hallucinations, depression, eating disorders and borderline personality disorder. Occupational Therapy intervention has become more common and has gained recognition by both clients and clinicians. Mosey's developmental frame of reference serves as a basis for the treatment of Multiple Personality Disorder by occupational therapists at the Royal Ottawa Hospital. This treatment approach uses projective techniques and life skills teaching with alter personalities to offer age appropriate learning experiences. A composite case history is included to illustrate the range of goals and activities involved