Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is one of the most common personality disorders. BPD affects many in the general population. Some statistics below describe the nature and scope of the disorder.
BPD has a higher incidence of occurrence than schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, and is present in approximately two percent of the general population. BPD has been evidenced in all cultures. It is estimated that between 10 percent of clients in outpatient clinical settings and 15 to 20 percent of those in inpatient psychiatric settings meet the diagnostic criteria for BPD.
Thirty to 60 percent of those presenting with a personality disorder have BPD.
BPD is most often evidenced in early adulthood, although it may not be diagnosed until later. BPD reflects a person's personality and is not episodic in nature, therefore later diagnosis does not indicate later onset of symptoms. In addition, with or without diagnosis, a greater stability in functioning is often attained as the BP reaches the middle and later stages of adulthood.
Although it is a somewhat controversial issue, it is possible to diagnose BPD in children and adolescents, provided the symptoms have been present for at least a year. BPD is not a common disorder of children or adolescents.
Of diagnosed cases of borderline personality disorder, 75 percent are female. It is possible that BPD may be missed in men, whose symptoms may be seen as antisocial or narcissistic, rather than borderline.
Perhaps due to preponderance of women in those diagnosed with BPD, most of the treatment studies have included only women. There is little research regarding the treatment of men with BPD.
Studies show that those with a first-degree relative, such as parent or sibling, are five times more likely to develop borderline personality disorder.
Those who suffer significant childhood trauma may also be more likely to develop BPD.
People with BPD are prone to suicidal behaviors and self-injury. The instability and risk of suicide is highest in early adulthood. However, as a whole, BPs have a high incidence of suicide attempts, with eight to 10 percent actually committing suicide.
BPD also indicates a greater risk for angry, impulsive or violent behavior.
In addition, BPD is often accompanied by substance abuse, which can increase the risks, including that of suicide and death or injury from accidents.
Sources
American Psychiatric Association (APA), 1994. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed.
Washington, D.C., American Psychiatric Association.Oldham, John M., Et al. Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients With Borderline Personality Disorder. (2001) American Psychiatric Association.
