BORDERLINE PERSONALITY-DISORDER - DIAGNOSIS, ETIOLOGY, AND TREATMENT

Diagnostic, etiological, and treatment factors which contribute to the understanding of borderline personality disorder are examined from an empirical perspective. Studies of the disorder over the last decade show that there is considerable confusion as to the salient diagnostic and etiological factors which are relevant for predicting treatment type, duration, and outcome. This paper presents a review of studies which have addressed the multiple diagnostic features and early life developmental experiences of the disorder. In addition, three models of treatment currently being investigated for their effects with borderline patients are summarized. Specific emphasis is placed on the clinical implications of the research findings.