Further, he concluded that the dissociation which caused the symptoms was the result of past traumatic experiences, and that the symptoms could be alleviated by bringing the split-off memories and feelings into consciousness. Dr. Janet's contemporaries, both American and European, expanded upon his research and a model for the diagnosis and treatment of dissociation was soon built. During the 1930's, however, as Freud's theories were embraced by the psychiatric world, studies of dissociation declined. Renewal of interest among the professional community was not sparked again until the 1980's, following increased public and professional awareness of child abuse and the rise in treatment of Vietnam veterans' post-traumatic stress syndromes.
Most clinicians believe that dissociative processes exist on a continuum.
At the other extreme is severe, chronic dissociation which may result in serious impairment or inability to function. There is a wide range of experiences in between. Some people with MPD can hold highly responsible jobs, contributing to society in a variety of professions, the arts, and public service. To co-workers, neighbors, and others with whom they interact daily, they apparently function normally. The dissociative process may result in a series of discrete states which eventually may take on identities of their own.