Personality disorder in parents: developmental perspectives and intervention

Abstract

Both personality disorder (PD) and parental inability to meet children's needs have their origins, at least in part, in the quality of early experiences. This chapter uses two theoretical frameworks, attachment theory and role relationships, to examine the concept of PD, and how/why PD interferes with 'good enough' parenting. These frameworks are used to describe implications for assessment and therapeutic interventions. This includes use of alternative care provision for children within the public sector. Within the high-risk environment of the 'PD' family unit lies a substantial proportion of the next generation of parents with PD. There are compelling reasons for better identification, assessment and management of such parents and their children. Improved collaboration between adult and child services could reduce the proportion of children who will go on to develop PD in adulthood and who struggle in the transition to parenthood.