Clinical manifestations in persons with multiple personality disorder.

Occupational therapists are becoming more involved in the treatment of persons with multiple personality disorder. Occupational therapy literature concerning treatment of this group of patients, however, is sparse. Clinical manifestations of multiple personality disorder include common alter personalities with distinct roles and functions, age-related behavioral patterns, and physiological differences. By recognizing and understanding these differences and characteristics and their relationship to treatment goals, occupational therapists can better use their background in life roles and occupations to increase the functional daily living skills of patients with multiple personality disorder.

Considerations and techniques in the treatment of persons with multiple personality disorder.

Occupational therapy intervention with the patient with multiple personality disorder requires an understanding of the complex psychotherapeutic goals for the patient and of the process involved in resolution of the trauma that led to the development of multiple personality. The psychotherapeutic techniques of hypnosis and abreaction affect the provision of occupational therapy services. Hypnotic communication, particularly the use of ideomotor hand signals, often facilitates work with various alter personalities. Occupational therapists may use a developmental approach with both child and adult alter personalities and may also use projective techniques, self-care training, and role and task management techniques. Occupational therapy can act as a stabilizing force for the person with multiple personality disorder through the enhancement of function and competency during the psychotherapeutic process.

Arthritis: preferred learning methods among Arizona therapists.

Arizona occupational and physical therapists were surveyed about their needs for education in arthritis. Responses to statements regarding attitudes, knowledge, willingness to learn, and preferred methods of learning were subjected to chi-square analysis. The results showed that a significant number of both occupational and physical therapists are deficient in knowledge about the disease and maintain negative attitudes about patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Both groups indicated a high interest in continuing education about arthritis. The preferred method of learning was self-study guides.