Borderline Personality Disorder Paper

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Borderline Personality Disorder Research Paper Before Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) was clearly defined, it was called a “wastebasket” disorder. This meant a patient could be diagnosed with it if they didn’t fit clearly within another certain diagnosis. BPD was often confused with schizophrenia, non-schizophrenic psychoses, and anxiety and depressive disorders. This disorder was commonly said to respond poorly, if not at all, to treatment. Today mental health professionals have proved this remark false. Unfortunately though, BPD is still held under this stigma and is frequently thought to be “untreatable.” According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, BPD is a personality disorder, or Axis II disorder, in Cluster B. This essay will not only provide important information about Borderline Personality Disorder but it will thoroughly outline the etiology, symptoms and prognosis. It will also tell how one can be diagnosed with BPD, how it can be treated and it will highlight a recent study about the brain activity of this disorder. The etiology of Borderline Personality Disorder is still being heavily researched today but there are common causes that most scientists agree on. Environmental and genetic factors are thought to be involved in the development of BPD’s symptoms (as cited on National Institute of Mental Health website). Studies that have been conducted on twins show that the disorder can be inherited . Similar studies show that temperament and particular personality traits like impulsiveness and aggression can be inherited as well. This is important because these traits are prominent in patients with BPD. Currently, genes that regulate emotions and impulse control are being stu... ... middle of paper ... ...arch going on today that will help patients with BPD in the future. Prognosis for Borderline Personality Disorder is not easy to determine. This disorder is chronic in nature but the individual can improve with gradual and long-term work. Personality traits are extremely difficult for anyone to change, but the symptoms of BPD can be reduced in intensity when worked on with a therapist. There have been cases of people who have overcome the disorder without any treatment at all. Typically long term treatment is mandatory. It is likely that someone diagnosed with BPD will live with it for the rest of their life. They will most likely live a life consisting of unstable relationships and trouble maintaining a job. It is important for people with BPD to get the diagnosis and treatment they need. This is an important step in improving the life of an individual with BPD.

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