Mapping the Edges and the In-between: A critical analysis of Borderline Personality Disorder

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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a diagnosis given to ten percent of all those seen in outpatient mental health
facilities and twenty percent of those seen in inpatient psychiatric units. This is a significant number of people in
the Western world. However, many of the core concepts and symptoms that underlie this diagnosis are questionable. Many
of the attitudes and actions of carers are based on assumptions about those with BPD that cry out for analysis, with
both cultural and gender norms interacting with clinical diagnosis and treatment, to the detriment of both carers and
patients.
This book considers how we diagnose BPD, looking at the key constructs: idendity disturbance, inappropriate or
excessive anger, unstable relationships, impulsivity, self-injurious behaviour, and manipulativity. It starts by
looking at the cultural and gender assumptions and norms behind BPD, drawing upon philosophical, clinical,
anthropological, and sociological literature. Combining philosophical analysis with clinical experience and patients'
writings, it clarifies the constructs so that the reader can understand the messiness and complexity that frames this
diagnosis and treatment. After examining the current state of these constructs and their effects on carer/patient
interactions. Part II sees an application of virtue theory to therapeutic treatment with BPD patients. It looks at
three virtues that are particularly important for clinicians and other carers to cultivate when working with BPD
patients: trustworthiness; the virtue of giving uptake, and empathy. It argues that, in their absence, not only are
clinicians' attitudes harmful to patients, but also that the status ofthe diagnosis is actually compromised.
Mapping the Edges and the In-Between presents a compelling argument that Borderline Personality Disorder needs to be
approached in a new light?one that will benefit patients.