In response to the reply from OP:

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is controversial due to its complex nature, including debates over its validity, its relationship with trauma, and its diagnostic difficulties. Critics question if DID is a genuine disorder or a result of iatrogenesis (therapist-induced symptoms), while others argue it is a product of social contagion and media influence, rather than a direct trauma response. Its controversial status is further fueled by inaccurate media portrayals that sensationalize the condition and the difficulty in distinguishing it from other mental health issues.

Core controversies

Iatrogenesis and suggestion: Some experts argue that symptoms of DID are created or worsened through suggestive questioning or other therapeutic techniques, especially in highly hypnotizable or suggestible patients. They claim that the prevalence of the disorder can be a result of social influence and therapist suggestion, a concept known as the sociogenic model.

Trauma model vs. sociogenic model: The debate also centers on the underlying cause. The trauma model views DID as a psychological response to severe childhood trauma, where dissociation is a coping mechanism. The sociogenic model, however, sees it as a form of learned behavior influenced by cultural beliefs and media, rather than a direct response to trauma.

Diagnostic challenges: DID shares overlapping symptoms with other disorders, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD), making accurate diagnosis difficult and sometimes leading to misdiagnosis.

Media influence: Dramatic and often inaccurate media portrayals have sensationalized DID, depicting individuals with the disorder as violent or monstrous. This can lead to increased stigmatization, fear, and underdiagnosis, as well as make people with DID hesitant to seek help for fear of judgment.