United States Of Tara: Mastering Multiple Personalities

The United States of Tara is a television series that originally aired from 2009 to 2011, created by Diablo Cody. The show revolves around Tara Gregson, a wife and mother of two, who suffers from dissociative identity disorder (DID), previously known as multiple personality disorder. DID is a psychological condition where a person has two or more distinct identities or personalities that control their behavior at different times. Throughout the series, Tara's multiple personalities, also known as alters, take center stage, each with its unique characteristics, behaviors, and backstory.

Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder

Dissociative identity disorder is a complex and often misunderstood condition. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), DID is characterized by the presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states that recurrently take control of an individual’s behavior. These alters may be aware of each other’s existence, but they often have different thoughts, feelings, and memories. In the case of Tara Gregson, her alters include T, a rebellious and promiscuous teenager; Buck, a masculine and aggressive personality; Alice, a perfect and nurturing housewife; and Shoshana, a therapist who tries to help Tara integrate her alters.

Exploring Tara’s Alters

Each of Tara’s alters serves a specific purpose, often as a coping mechanism to deal with the trauma and stress in her life. T, for example, represents Tara’s desire for freedom and rebellion, while Buck embodies her anger and aggression. Alice, on the other hand, is a manifestation of Tara’s need for perfection and control. Understanding the different alters and their roles in Tara’s life is crucial in grasping the complexities of DID. The following table illustrates the main characteristics of each alter:

The United States of Tara series also explores the impact of DID on Tara's family and relationships. Her husband, Max, and children, Kate and Marshall, struggle to cope with Tara's condition, often finding themselves caught in the middle of her alters' conflicts. The show highlights the challenges of living with someone who has DID, including the unpredictability of their behavior and the emotional toll it takes on loved ones.

Treatment and Management of DID

Treatment for dissociative identity disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support groups. The goal of therapy is to help the individual integrate their alters and develop a sense of unity and control over their behavior. In Tara’s case, her therapist, Dr. Ocean, uses a variety of techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), to help Tara manage her alters and work towards integration.

Real-Life Examples of DID

While the United States of Tara series is a fictional representation of DID, there are many real-life examples of individuals who have been diagnosed with the condition. One notable example is Chris Costner Sizemore, whose story was portrayed in the book and film “The Three Faces of Eve.” Sizemore’s experiences with DID were well-documented, and her case is often cited as one of the most significant in the history of the condition.

In conclusion, the United States of Tara series provides a unique and insightful look into the complexities of dissociative identity disorder. By exploring the different alters and their roles in Tara's life, we can gain a deeper understanding of the condition and its effects on individuals and their loved ones. While the show is a fictional representation of DID, it highlights the importance of awareness, education, and support for individuals who live with the condition.