Treatment Outlines for Borderline, Narcissistic and Histrionic Personality Disorders

Abstract

Treatment outlines for Axis I disorders were published during 1982–1985. Treatment outlines for the DSM-Ill personality disorders are being published. This guide to the treatment of borderline, histrionic and narcissistic disorders was developed from the literature, from the opinions of practising psychiatrists and from the experience of nominated experts. Even though the treatment of patients who suffer from these disorders is very difficult, the surveys of outcome in the literature suggest that a majority of patients improve significantly with long term psychotherapy. In the present outline the expert committee describe a hypothetical model for the genesis of these disorders and outline the steps to be followed if therapy is to be optimal. The experts stress that therapy is often prolonged and difficult but can be rewarding. They caution that therapists are likely to require considerable special training and it is recommended that they seek supervision throughout the process of therapy.