Multiple personality disorder, or MPD, is a mental illness characterized by two or more distinct personalities. Sometimes, these personalities are so deeply ingrained that they often dominate the person’s life and thoughts. Because MPD is so misunderstood and stigmatized, it’s no surprise that there aren’t many movies about it. That said, here are five excellent movies about multiple personality disorder that any fan of psychological thrillers should check out. But before we start, please see our psychology dictionary to get familiar with the multiple selves definition.
What is multiple personality disorder?
Multiple personality disorder (MPD) is a mental illness in which a person suffers from two or more distinct, seemingly separate personalities. Each of these personalities has its own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. MPD is often characterized by severe mood swings and recurrent episodes of dissociation (a state in which the person loses contact with reality). While most people with MPD experience only one or two alternate personalities, some individuals have up to twenty.
Main symptoms of MPD
The symptoms of MPD can vary significantly from person to person, but they typically include changes in behavior, mood, and thoughts. Some of the most common symptoms of MPD include:
- Changes in personality – People with MPD frequently experience changes, usually involving a shift from one personality to another. In some cases, the different characters may be completely opposite of each other; for example, one person might be timid and introverted while another is outgoing and aggressive.
- Confusion about identity – People with MPD often struggle to understand who they are and what motivates their actions. They may feel like different people inside different bodies and find it challenging to stick to any specific routine or schedule.
- Dissociative episodes – Some people with MPD might experience periods during which they lose touch with reality and may experience strange flashes or hallucinations. These episodes can be very frightening for the individual experiencing them and those around them.
- Anxiety – patients with MPD often experience intense anxiety and distress due to their inability to understand or cope with their condition.
What are the three types of personality disorders?
There are three types of personality disorders: paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal. A paranoid personality disorder is characterized by exaggerated thoughts and suspiciousness about others. At the same time, a schizoid personality disorder is marked by withdrawal from social interaction and a lack of interest in anything outside oneself. Finally, a schizotypal personality disorder is characterized by a combination of oddities, such as a strong interest in strange phenomena, an insular worldview, and abnormal thinking. All three types of personality disorders can be distressing and difficult to live with, but each has its unique set of symptoms that must be considered when diagnosing them.
How can you tell if someone has multiple personalities?
People with multiple personalities may exhibit different behaviors and thoughts at other times. This can be hard to tell at first, but there are some signs that someone may have more than one personality. Some of the most common indicators are a person who changes drastically in their moods or expressions, speaking in a different voice or dialect, having sudden bursts of energy or being very subdued, having difficulty concentrating or making decisions, and exhibiting unusual interests or behaviors. It’s also important to remember that only some people with multiple personalities need all eight signs to be present for diagnosis. If you’re worried about someone you know, it’s best to talk to them about it or apply for professional help.
Top five movies on multiple personality disorder
Multiple personality disorder (MPD) is essentially a mental disorder in which a person has two or more distinct personalities that often conflict with one another. The disorder is often characterized by fragmented and discontinuous memories and various symptoms, including mood, behavior, and thinking changes. Because the disorder is so complex, there are few movies specifically about MPD. However, here are five movies based on multiple personality disorder that are worth watching:
1) “Sybil” (2000) – This film tells the story of Cleo Laine, who claims to have six different personalities – three of which she calls Sybil. The movie explores Cleo’s life before and after her diagnosis with MPD and the controversies surrounding her case.
2) “Obsessed” (2008) – This drama follows the struggles of a woman with three separate identities, one of which is a serial killer. The film is well-made and provides an intriguing look into the minds of people with this disorder.
3) “Split” (2017) – Starring M. Night Shyamalan, “Split” tells the story of someone with MPD who begins to develop multiple personalities after being traumatized during a car crash. The movie is suspenseful and well-made, earning critical acclaim and several awards nominations. It’s an excellent representation of MPD and its effects on those suffering.
4) “The Three Faces of Eve” (1957) – This movie tells the story of a woman who develops multiple personalities after being diagnosed with schizophrenia. The essences include a successful TV actress, a naive country girl, and an evil seductress. Eve’s husband struggles to figure out which character is real and help her recover from her illness.
5) “The Exorcist” (1973) – This classic thriller tells the story of a young girl who begins to experience terrifying hallucinations and multiple personalities after being possessed by a demon. Starring Linda Blair, William Friedkin’s shocking multiple personality disorder movie is still considered one of MPD’s most chilling depictions.