The families of borderline patients: the psychological environment revisited

We examine the families of patients with borderline personality disorder. According to existing data, the family members of individuals with borderline personality disorder have higher-than-expected levels of psychopathology, particularly with regard to mood, impulse, substance use, and Axis II disorders. Likewise, in the empirical literature, patients with borderline personality disorder seem to consistently portray parents in a very negative light. Collectively, this information suggests that there may be considerable levels of psychopathology in the families of patients with borderline personality disorder. In terms of family treatment, there is very little available information. Reported strategies seem to focus on psychoeducation, in addition to skills training and problem solving, and there are a number of educational resources for families on the web. Overall, this area is clearly in need of further research.