Borderline Personality Disorder: Exploring the Risk Factors and Treatment Options
Document Type
Poster Presentation
Keywords
Borderline Personality Disorder, risk factors, genetics, therapy
Biography
Erin Freeman is a third year student at Marshall University. She is working towards her bachelor's degree in Psychology along with a minor in Spanish. Her future plans are to attend Marshall University's graduate program in Clinical Psychology. Her research interests include personality disorders and the influential factors of genetics and environment.
Major
Psychology
Advisor for this project
Dr. Penny Koontz
Abstract
Abstract
This study explores the etiology of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) through the review of current literature, including the discussion of specific risk factors and possible treatment options. Because the origin of BPD has yet to be fully understood, it is expected that the etiological factors are a combination of both genetics and environmental factors. BPD is a cluster B personality disorder included in the DSM-5 manual, characterized by unstable moods and behaviors. Based on the reviewed literature, the most influential factor of BPD is childhood maltreatment, such as trauma, abuse, or neglect. However, empirical evidence also posits that genetic predispositions, including heritability, hyper suppression of cortisol, and reduced serotonergic responsiveness pose as additional factors. APA guidelines recommend that the best method of treatment for BPD is psychotherapy, specifically Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The reviewed literature suggests that the preliminary etiological factors in BPD can be recognized in order to identify preventative measures and offer most relevant treatment. Further research on genetic vulnerability and longer-term studies on childhood maltreatment need to be considered.
Borderline Personality Disorder: Exploring the Risk Factors and Treatment Options
Abstract
This study explores the etiology of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) through the review of current literature, including the discussion of specific risk factors and possible treatment options. Because the origin of BPD has yet to be fully understood, it is expected that the etiological factors are a combination of both genetics and environmental factors. BPD is a cluster B personality disorder included in the DSM-5 manual, characterized by unstable moods and behaviors. Based on the reviewed literature, the most influential factor of BPD is childhood maltreatment, such as trauma, abuse, or neglect. However, empirical evidence also posits that genetic predispositions, including heritability, hyper suppression of cortisol, and reduced serotonergic responsiveness pose as additional factors. APA guidelines recommend that the best method of treatment for BPD is psychotherapy, specifically Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). The reviewed literature suggests that the preliminary etiological factors in BPD can be recognized in order to identify preventative measures and offer most relevant treatment. Further research on genetic vulnerability and longer-term studies on childhood maltreatment need to be considered.
