Dissociative identity disorder (DID), formerly known as multiple personality disorder, is a disorder in which two or more distinct identities alternate to control the awareness and behavior of a person (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2011). If not diagnosed and treated early in development, personality alterations can begin to fight for control of the body (Pica, 1999). This can happen because the alternate personalities have become an equal part of the person and each alter cannot always be in control. Although DID is most commonly diagnosed in late adolescence and early adulthood, most diagnoses occur 5 to 10 years after symptom onset (Slogar, 2011). Additionally, DID appears to be more prevalent in females, those with a close relative with DID, and typically occurs during sensitive developmental stages of childhood. First, a person who has developed DID may be more likely to pass it on to their children. . This is done through genetics, as well as similar actions, such as alcoholism, abuse (physical or emotional), etc. For example, if a person was abused as a child, they are statistically more likely to also become an abuser, in the same way. A model is in place for DID. If a person was abused as a child and developed DID, they are more likely to abuse their child who, in turn, is also more likely to develop this disorder. This happens because children learn how to behave by observing others. They learn more from some individuals than others, such as their parents, and thus repeat their parents' actions. It was concluded that "...there is evidence that people with trauma disorders have higher rates of alcoholism, chronic illness, and violence in subsequent generations." » (Sidran Found...... middle of article ......thin-the-multiple-system/Pica, M. (1999). The evolution of altered personality states in dissociative disorder Identity. Psychotherapy, 36, 404 -415. Ruddy, N., Farley, T., Nymberg, J. and Hayden, K. (1994). Family, 12(3), 327-338. doi: 10.1037/h0089056 Slogar, S. Dissociative Identity Disorder: Overview and Current Research - Student Pulse Online Academic Journal - Student Pulse Retrieved October 21, 2013 from http://www. .studentpulse.com articles/525/. dissociative-identity-troubleoverview-and-current-researchTraumatic Stress Institute Sidran: Help for Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD) and Dissociation Resources for Survivors, Dissociation. supporters and professionals. Retrieved October 21, 2013 from http://. www.sidran.org/sub.cfm? contentID=75§ionid.=4