Handbook of Personality Disorders

“A valuable resource for truly understanding the depths of personality disorders and the recent developments in our understanding of them, along with interventions. The extensive updates make this a worthwhile addition. *****!”

—Doody's Review Service


“A major contribution to the expanding, challenging field of personality disorders. The second edition includes an up-to-date review of significant empirical research and in-depth analysis of controversies regarding etiology and classification, and it critically—yet fairly and objectively—spells out varying theoretical positions and therapeutic approaches. The authors clearly delineate ways we might advance toward an integrated concept of personality and personality disorders, as well as integration of available therapeutic approaches. This volume is a 'must' for all clinicians dealing with the diagnostic and psychotherapeutic challenges of patients with personality disorders, and an essential reference for researchers.”

—Otto F. Kernberg, MD, Department of Psychiatry, Weill Cornell Medical College; Director, Personality Disorders Institute, New York Presbyterian Hospital


“This handbook beautifully demonstrates that a single volume can integrate the needs of clinicians and researchers. The second edition presents the latest scientific research of relevance to the personality disorder community, and documents its crucial translation to clinical practice. The dissemination of the knowledge in this volume ultimately will be of tremendous benefit to persons in recovery and their family members.”

—Perry D. Hoffman, PhD, President, National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder


“Livesley has done it again! He and Larstone have assembled a master class of contributors for this second edition—almost all you need to know about personality disorders can be found in the pages of this handbook. Building on the acclaimed first edition, this is a mine of information that no serious student of the subject can afford to ignore.”

—Peter Tyrer, MD, Emeritus Professor of Community Psychiatry, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom


“Elucidating the major models of understanding, diagnosing, and treating personality disorders, this handbook opens up dialogue by offering an integrative but critical perspective that takes us beyond current controversies. The volume presents a number of conceptual models—including cognitive-behavioral, attachment, psychodynamic, neurobiological, and sociocultural perspectives—and describes cutting-edge research and clinical advances. It also explores the origins of prevailing conceptualizations of the self, identity, and personality. The result is a comprehensive work that will be of use to clinicians, students, and researchers at all levels in psychology and psychiatry. I could see building a course around this book to introduce the range of perspectives in personality disorder research and treatment.”

—Diana Diamond, PhD, Clinical Psychology Doctoral Program (Emerita), City University of New York; Senior Fellow, Personality Disorders Institute, Weill Cornell Medical College