You're *psychic*! I had just finished posting a humorous link -- in an entirely different thread -- on similar DSM-IV classifications.

> > My problem is that schizophrenia runs in my family. [Deeper voice: No it doesn't.] High voice again: Yes, it does.
> >
>
> Schizophrenia is often popularly confused with Multiple Personality Disorder, but the two are actually different conditions. Schizophrenia involves a disconnection from reality, including hallucinations and delusions, and detoriation in functionality in everyday life, but not the manifestation of multiple personalities.

Actually, what's probably the most distinct component of Schizophrenia (aside from hearing voices, vision disturbances, and social deterioration) is "blunted affect". Events that would cause an emotional rise (e.g. surprise, anger, or feelings of guilt) in most people don't seem to bother schizophrenics. They FEEL internally "disconnected" from the world. This is a disorder that strikes young people at puberty or in their early 20s, so early identification of the symptoms is best for a good long-term prognosis.

And yes, Multiple Personality Disorder (MPD) is pretty rare.

Wolfspirit