Fighting the Whole System: Dissociative Identity Disorder, Labeling Theory, and Iatrogenic Doubting.
This research examines how individuals diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder construe their experiences of being labeled with a contested diagnosis. Semistructured interviews were conducted in the United Kingdom with 5 women and 2 men diagnosed with dissociative identity disorder. A framework analysis was conducted. The analysis identified 2 overarching themes: diagnosis cross-examined and navigating care systems. The diagnosis appeared to be continually assessed by participants for its fit with symptoms, and the doubt among professionals seemed to be unhelpfully reflected in participants' attempts to understand and come to terms with their experiences. The findings are considered in light of labeling theory, the iatrogenic effects of professional doubt, and current debates concerning the reliability and validity of psychiatric diagnostic systems that have been reinvigorated by the publication of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
a John Howard Centre for Forensic Mental Health , East London NHS Foundation Trust , Hackney , United Kingdom.
Jessica
J
Floris
Susan
S
McPherson
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003469:Culture; D009105:Dissociative Identity Disorder / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013222:State Medicine; D013240:Stereotyping; D006113:United Kingdom; D055815:Young Adult
childhood trauma; dissociative identity disorder; iatrogenic doubting; labeling theory; psychiatric diagnosis