Alters are dissociated parts of the mind that the patient experiences as separate from each other. Spontaneous or purposefulhypnotic trance states produced by a person within his or her own psyche. These states may include any or all of the full range of hypnotic phenomena, such as sensory alterations, anesthesia, time distortion, relaxation, age regression, and alterations in physiological functioning.
Dissociation is a psychological defense mechanism that also has psychobiological components.
References American Psychiatric Association. The psychological organization of multiple personality disordered patients as revealed in psychological testing. Australian Psychological Society Limited Board of Directors. Guidelines relating to the reporting of recovered memories. Australian Psychological Society Limited.