Abuse Quote by Alice Jamieson
““Some alters are what Dr Ross describes in Multiple Personality Disorder as 'fragments', which are 'relatively limited psychic states that express only one feeling, hold one memory or carry out a limited task in the person's life. A fragment might be a frightened child who holds the memory of one particular abuse incident.' In complex multiples, Dr Ross continues, the 'personalities are relatively full-bodied, complete states capable of a rang of emotions and behaviours.' The alters will have 'executive control some substantial amount of time over the person life'. He stresses, and I repeat his emphasis, 'Complex MPD with over 15 alter personalities and complicated amnesic barriers are associated with 100 percent frequency of childhood physical, sexual and emotional abuse.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Diagnosis and Treatment of Dissociative Identity Disorder, 1999
Fragmented identities are limited, emotion‑specific states, whereas complex alters are full‑featured personalities with broader emotional range and executive control.
In simple terms: Fragments are narrow; complex alters are whole personalities.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the depth of trauma in personality fragmentation.
Themes
psychology
trauma
identity
mental health
abuse
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
clinical
educational
When to use this quote
- therapy sessions
- clinical assessment
- support groups
- educational workshops
Key Concepts
dissociation
fragmentation
complex PTSD
executive function
Questions to Reflect On
- How do fragmented states affect daily functioning?
- What therapeutic approaches best integrate complex alters?
A Different Perspective
Complex alters may still be constrained by amnesic barriers despite apparent wholeness.
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