Split and Dissociation

Strengths and Missteps in the Film’s Portrayal of Dissociation

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(Spoiler warning for M. Night Shyamalan’s Split, 2016)

Split is gripping cinema, but its portrayal of dissociation mixes fact with fiction. Many viewers leave with questions about “split personalities”, danger, and what life with a dissociative disorder is actually like. This guide separates the myths the film amplifies from the truths worth keeping.

First, what do we mean by dissociation

Dissociation is an umbrella term for feeling detached from yourself or your surroundings. It includes experiences such as depersonalisation and derealisation. Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is one specific condition on this spectrum. It involves distinct identity states, often linked to severe, prolonged childhood trauma. People with DID are not “possessed” or superhuman; they are people whose nervous systems adapted to survive.

What Split shows in brief

A man with multiple “alters” kidnaps teenagers. Some parts are kind, others controlling. A feared state called “The Beast” appears with extreme strength and violence. Dissociation drives the threat and the plot twists.

Myths the film reinforces

  1. People with DID are dangerous In reality, people with DID are far more likely to be harmed than to harm others. Violence is not a feature of DID.
  2. Dissociation creates superhuman abilities “The Beast” suggests body chemistry and strength change beyond human limits. While stress can alter posture, pain perception or voice, there’s no evidence for supernatural transformation.
  3. Switching is theatrical and always obvious Films need visual drama. In life, shifts between parts can be quiet, internal and cooperative. Many people study or work with subtle signs others never notice.
  4. One part rules the rest Systems may include protectors or organisers, but most people describe negotiation and teamwork rather than a single ruler.
  5. Trauma automatically leads to DID Trauma is a key risk factor, but responses vary. Many survivors never develop DID. There isn’t one pathway.
  6. Memory is always a total blank Amnesia can happen, yet partial memory, co-consciousness and internal awareness are common. It’s not all or nothing.

Truths the film touches (in exaggerated form)

  1. Trauma and adaptation DID is linked to early, repeated trauma. Dissociation starts as protection when there’s no safe escape.
  2. Distinct identity states Different parts can hold different memories, preferences and roles. This can look like changes in manner, voice or handwriting, though not to film-level extremes.
  3. Triggers can prompt shifts Stress, reminders of the past, or specific cues can bring forward a part that learned to handle those situations.
  4. Therapy and stability are possible With trauma-informed therapy, people build cooperation between parts, reduce unhelpful dissociation, and create steadier daily routines.

Why these myths matter

Scary stereotypes increase stigma. They make it harder to disclose symptoms, ask for support, or find a clinician who understands dissociation. Sensational plots also blur the line between dissociation and psychosis. These are different experiences and need different approaches.

Better ways to talk about dissociation

If you recognised yourself

You’re not alone and you’re not a film character. If dissociation is frequent, frightening, or affecting study, work or relationships, consider speaking with a trauma-informed clinician.

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