Borderline Personality Disorder: A Multidimensional Approach

by Joel Paris MD

Overview

The etiology of borderline personality disorder is essentially unknown. Although many well-known theoretical formulations remain the best possible hypotheses, much of what has been suggested thus far for the management of BPD has proved impractical in a majority of cases.

Written by an expert in the field of BPD, Borderline Personality Disorder presents a practical approach to the management of patients with this disorder. Designed for readers who are skeptical of facile explanations, this book provides a broader view of the etiology of BPD than has been presented in previous studies. Readers will not only appreciate the review of the current research but also its theoretical integration into practice.

Borderline Personality Disorderhas two goals: • to build a comprehensive theory of etiology which takes into account biological, psychological, and social factors.• to suggest treatment guidelines which are consistent with this theory, and which are based on the findings of clinical trials.

Based on the most up-to-date clinical research available, Borderline Personality Disorder shows how these complex disorders are shaped by biological vulnerability, brought on by psychological experiences, and influenced by social conditions.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780880486552
Publisher:	American Psychiatric Association Publishing
Publication date:	08/01/1994
Edition description:	1st ed
Pages:	232
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.80(d)
Age Range:	18 Years

Table of Contents

Definition and boundaries. Personality traits and personality disorders. Biological risk factors. Psychological risk factors. Social risk factors. A multidimensional theory. Outcome. Treatment options. Clinical management. Research directions. References. Index.

What People are Saying About This

W. J. Livesley

Dr. Paris has written a book on borderline personality disorder that is unlike many of its predecessors. Whereas most of the numerous volumes on the topic rely on clinical observation of relatively small numbers of patients to draw sweeping generalizations about etiology and treatment that are usually based on a single conceptual position, Dr. Paris attempts to construct a model that is as far as possible based upon the results of empirical observations, informed by multiple theoretical perspectives.... By bringing together empirical data from diverse origins, Dr. Paris has established an important base for future thinking and research.

Theodore Millon

This is one of those milestones in the study of the borderline personality disorder, not just another compilation of papers or a doctrinaire argument representative of one or another school of thought. It is a splendid piece of original work, a brilliant synthesis of the diverse influences that bear on the development of the borderline. Both clinically astute and empirically anchored, it provides the reader with an integrated model that transcends in its scope and analysis all other efforts of its kind. It is also a refreshing experience to read a book on this disorder that is not only insightful and gracefully written, but reviews the rich intellectual history of the construct so thoroughly and articulates its research possibilities so wisely and sensibly. Moreover, this work will have a significant impact on the field for decades to come owing to Paris' highly inventive research proposals.

Michael H. Stone

Dr. Paris has written a comprehensive and richly referenced book covering every aspect of borderline personality. Dr. Paris' expertise and long experience shine through in his lucid prose-style, establishing him as an investigator at the cutting edge in this field. Mental health professionals grappling with the difficulties typically posed by their borderline patients will find this book highly readable, valuable, and instructive.

Editorial Reviews

Joel Paris' book is a masterful review of much of the recent and relevant literature on borderline personality disorder (BPD).... a highly readable and digestible volume for the clinician who seeks a synthesis of much of the current literature on BPD provided by an author whose own studies have been in the forefront of advancing the field.

General Hospital Psychiatry

Paris (psychology, McGill U.) proposes a comprehensive theory for the still unknown etiology of borderline personality disorder, and suggests treatment guidelines that are consistent with the theory and based on the findings of clinical trials. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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