Borderline Personality Disorder: A Brief Contemporary Review. (original) (raw)

2019, EC Psychology and Psychiatry

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a severe mental illness that is correlated with low quality of life, and inadequate psycho-social functioning, at a significantly high cost for society. Historically, BPD has been diagnosed as an unstable and pervasive pattern of interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, and marked impulsivity beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) diagnostic criteria. It is also important to note that many with this disorder are highly intuitive and perceptive. Historically, BPD has been stereotyped as a deteriorating condition. However, contemporary data affords the patient the hope, that combined with their willingness and dedicated application of evidence-based treatments, genuine healing can be theirs. Patients are encouraged to be self-accountable, to make amends to those they have hurt, shift from a learned helplessness and victim mentality, to a more confident, positive, proactive approach to their lives. Families and loved ones are encouraged to seek their own support system, and to engage in the practice of skill building, effective communication, and self-agency. This paper will discuss what is relevant and pertinent to the current diagnosis and treatment of BPD in accordance to the DSM-5. Included, will be current perspectives in diagnosis, assessment and treatment, including an integrative discussion of traditional psychological research and neuroscience.