Here are quick links to the studies that were reviewed at Suite101 PD during the month of Sept 2007.
The Latest Research on Personality Disorders
At Suite101, we promise to bring you the latest articles on new research findngs related to Personality Disorder. See the Quick Links below and stay up-to-date with the latest therapies and PD info.
Quick Links to PD Research Reviewed 9/07
Antisocial Children: Twin Study Provides More Proof that Psychopathy Is Inherited
Evidence is mounting in support of a genetic basis for anti-social behavior. A study of twins, published in June 2005 issue of the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry,revealed that anti-social behavior is strongly inherited in children with psychopathic tendencies such as callousness and reduced emotional capacity.
Early Signs of Antisocial Personality: New Study of Toddlers Identifies Antecedents of Antisocial Behavior
A twenty-five year study published in August 2007 issue of The Journal of Abnormal Psychology demonstrates that, as early as the age of three, there are temperamental and physiological difference between those who show psychopathic tendencies as adults and those who don’t.
Treatment of Borderline Personality: New Study Compares Effectiveness of Three Types of BPD Therapy
A new study published in the June 2007 issue of The American Journal of Psychiatry compared the efficacy of three different therapies commonly used to treat patients suffering from Borderline Personality Disorder: dialectic behavior therapy, transference focused therapy, and dynamic supportive treatment. All were shown to have a significant effect in reducing symptoms commonly associated with the disorder. However, differences were noted in the specific borderline traits most improved by each therapeutic approach.
Personality of a Stalker: New Research on Perception of Stalking Traits
A study recently published in the journal Violence and Victims compared coeds’ assessment of personality traits of those they perceived as stalkers and of partners of a ‘normal’ relationship. Spitzberg and Vesler, the researchers behind this study, were interested in investigating whether there are basic differences in personality between a post-relationship stalker and a partner in a “normal” relationship.
Stalkers Who Aren’t Strangers: New Study Provides Insight into Post-Relationship Stalking
A recent study examined coeds' reported incidence and type of stalking, as well as comparing the traits of unwelcome pursuers to those of relationship partners. Ratings of personality disorder and stalking behavior were higher for pursuers who had been in a romantic relationship with the victim, rather than just acquaintances or friends.
More Information on Personality Disorders
There are numerous on-line and in print resources with additional information on personality disorders, including: The Mayo Clinic: Mental Health Center, and Psychology Prof Online.
This article contains links and brief summaries of several new studies relating to Personality Disorders. The contents of this article are not meant to be used for diagnosis and are not a substitute for professional help and counseling.
PD Sources
Clarkin, J.F., Levy, K.N., Lenzenweger, M.F., and Kenberg, O.F. (2007). Evaluating Three Treatments for Borderline Personality Disorder: A Multiwave Study. The American Journal of Psychaiatry. Vol. 164, Iss. 6.
Glenn, A. L. et al (2007). Early Temperamental and Psychophysiological Precursors of Adult Psychopathic Personality. Journal of Abnormal Psychology. 116, 508 – 515
Spitzberg, B., Veksler, A. (2007) The Personality of Pursuit: Personality Attributions of Unwanted Pursuers and Stalkers. Violence and Victims, 22, 3.
Viding, E., James R., Blair, R., Moffitt, T. E., Plomin, R. (2005). Evidence for substantial genetic risk for psychopathy in 7-year-olds. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 46, 6.
