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Borderline Personality Disorder ( Bipolar Disorder )

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Abstract
According to the DSM IV four types of psychopathology describe Borderline Personality Disorder: affective disturbance, impulsivity, cognitive problems, and intense unstable relationships. Before diagnosis, Doctors must establish that patterns of affective instability, impulsivity, and unstable relationships have been consistent over time. Therefore, obtaining the patient’s detailed history is crucial.
Many of the same features can be found in patients with Bipolar Disorder. Dysphorias, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and thoughts of suicide, are psychotic symptoms found in both disorders. Sadly, borderline patients with this cluster of symptoms are often misdiagnosed with bipolar disorder, and placed on psychopharmacological …show more content…

Then in the late 1940s, Dr. Robert Knight introduced the concepts of ego psychology into his description of borderline disorder. Citing that ego psychology connects with the mental functions that enable us to realistically perceive events, resulting in the successful integration of our thoughts and feelings. This allows us to develop effective responses to life around us. He suggested that people with borderline disorder have severe impairments when trying to apply this concept to their day-to-day lives.
Like many mental disorders, the cause of borderline personality disorder is not fully understood. Yet most experts would agree, the disorder results from a combination of factors. Some studies suggest that genetics, environment, along with brain abnormalities all play a contributing factor.
Many medical professionals initially suggested that BPD overlapped with schizophrenia, non-schizophrenic psychoses, and neuroses such as anxiety and depressive disorders. Due to what appeared to be it’s overlap with so many other psychiatric diagnoses, it became known as a “wastebasket” diagnosis. Oliver Bonnington writes; because patients did not fall clearly into specific diagnostic category researchers believe testing lacked diagnostic precision and validity. It also was thought that the disorder responded very poorly to treatment. Yet modern day studies have shown differently. Borderline treatment relies primarily on psychotherapy with medications

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