Personality Disorders

Personality disorders consist of long-term patterns of maladaptive behaviour which have a generally unrecognised importance in clinical practice. However, personality disorders are the origins of many medical consultations and social ills, including substance abuse, alcoholism, self-harm, suicide, neglect of children, criminality and HIV transmission. In a comprehensive summary and evaluation of the clinical literature, this book seeks to dispel the myth that personality disorder is simply a category for those problem individuals for whom nothing can be done. With detailed coverage of recognition, assessment and management, Drs Dowson and Grounds provide a co-ordinated empirically-based account of those aspects of personality disorders which are of relevance to psychiatrists and allied disciplines, including clinical psychologists, social workers, criminologists, specialist nurses and primary care physicians.

• Comprehensive and up-to-date detailed account including critical evaluation
• Ideal handbook for all those encountering personality disorders, emphasis on clinical management strategies
• Includes comparison of ICD and DSM categorisation for each disorder