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Not all alters have all these roles, for example not all systems have hosts or gatekeepers.
Disclaimer: this is not a complete list of roles
The host is the alter that fronts the most. They are typically responsible for most aspects of life, such as work or school. A system may have multiple hosts to divide daily tasks. Hosts may also be unaware of the system while other alters are aware.
Host alter role flag by @c1rcus-fr34k on tumblr
A gatekeeper is an alter that controls switching, access to front, access to the innerworld, etc. They may also prevent certain alters from accessing certain memories.
Gatekeeper alter role flag by @c1rcus-fr34k on tumblr
A protector is an alter that protects the system, be it physically, verbally, emotionally, sexually, etc. Protectors may front to deal with or fight back against abuse, or they may comfort other alters during hard times.
Protector alter role flag by @c1rcus-fr34k on tumblr
A caregiver is a type of protector that cares for the body and/or other alters in the system. They may front after or during stressful situations to calm down the body, may make sure the system is eating and resting properly, and may care for more vulnerable parts such as littles or trauma holders.
Caregiver alter role flag by @c1rcus-fr34k on tumblr
A persecutor is an alter that harms the body or system, or work to sabatoge their goals. This is typically due to trauma. It is important to remember that persecutory alters are not 'evil' and are capable of recovery.
Persecutor alter role flag by @c1rcus-fr34k on tumblr
A trauma holder is a part that 'holds' traumatic memories and their associated emotions, or remembers them so the rest of the system doesnt have to.
Trauma holder alter role flag by @c1rcus-fr34k on tumblr
