OBJECTIVE: The authors explore the conceptual and phenomenological
interface between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and borderline
personality disorder as well as the therapeutic and research implications
of this interface. METHOD: They systematically review the relevant
empirical, conceptual, and clinical literature. RESULTS: These seemingly
separate disorders are related. Borderline personality disorder is often
shaped in part by trauma, and individuals with borderline disorder are
therefore vulnerable to developing PTSD. CONCLUSIONS: The authors draw a
distinction between the enduring effects that traumas can have on formation
(or change) of axis II personality traits (including those found in
borderline personality disorder) and acute symptomatic reactions to trauma,
called PTSD, that are accompanied by specific psychophysiological
correlates. They describe the implications of these conclusions for DSM-IV,
therapy, and future research.Abstract Teaser