What does the term "alter" refer to in the context of DID?

In the context of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), the term "alter" specifically refers to an alternate personality or identity that exists within a person. Individuals with DID may develop these alters as a coping mechanism to deal with trauma or overwhelming emotional experiences. Each alter may have distinct traits, memories, behaviors, and ways of interacting with the world. They can function independently and can carry different roles or characteristics related to the individual's experiences and history.

Understanding the nature of alters is crucial for therapists and clinicians working with individuals diagnosed with DID, as therapy often involves recognizing and integrating these different aspects of a person’s identity. This integration process can help the individual achieve a greater sense of wholeness and improve their overall mental health and functioning. The other options, while related to the experience of individuals with DID, do not encapsulate the concept of "alter" as accurately as the idea of a personality fragment does.