What characterizes Dissociative Identity Disorder?

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is primarily characterized by the presence of two or more distinct personality states, often referred to as "alters." Each of these personality states may have its own name, age, history, and characteristics, and they can differ significantly in terms of behavior, attitudes, and even memories. The existence of these distinct identities is central to the diagnosis of DID and is often associated with significant distress or impairment in functioning.

The other options describe symptoms that are not specific to Dissociative Identity Disorder. For example, while an inability to recall personal information relates to dissociative amnesia—an important aspect of some dissociative disorders—it does not capture the core feature of DID, which is the presence of multiple personality states. Severe mood swings and episodes of depression and mania are more characteristic of mood disorders rather than dissociative disorders. Therefore, the defining feature of DID remains the presence of multiple distinct identities, which is why it is recognized as the correct answer.