Prognosis
Prognosis
Longitudinal studies have questioned the stable nature of personality disorder symptoms over time. For example, in one study of 290 inpatients with borderline personality disorder, 88% achieved remission; factors were identified to predict an earlier time to remission, including the absence of childhood sexual abuse.[120] Some have suggested symptoms may attenuate with age. Symptoms are often exacerbated in response to stressors. Personality disorders have been shown to respond to treatment, particularly if relatively intensive treatment is provided over an extended time-frame.[121] The 10-year course of borderline personality disorder is also characterised by severe and persistent impairment in social functioning.[122]
Impact of diagnosis
Care must be exercised in both establishing and documenting personality disorder diagnosis, because of the meaning and social stigma associated with this diagnosis.
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