Can the classification of personality disorders be based on behavior genetics? A comment on South and DeYoung (2013)

Comments on the article by S. C. South and N. J. DeYoung (see record 2012-01744-001). This commentary examines how behavior genetic research can be used to inform the revision of personality disorders (PDs) during the transition from DSM-IV to DSM-5. Although supportive of the proposal put forth by the work group that extreme personality traits need to be distinguished from personality disorder by the presence of disorganization in personality structure and function, South and DeYoung note the absence of behavior genetics data on the levels of personality functioning and the new general criteria for personality disorder that incorporate impairment in personality functioning as the "A criterion." They also note, however, that literature supporting this type of definition with its focus on aspects of self-concept and interpersonal relations is rapidly growing.