The Dimensional Conceptualization of Personality Disorders: Personality Organization, Personality Functioning, and Personality Disorders

J Pers Disord. 2024 Apr;38(2):105-125. doi: 10.1521/pedi.2024.38.2.105.

Abstract

Over the past several decades, significant criticism of the categorical classification system for personality disorders has highlighted the need to transition to a dimensional classification system. This study reviewed key issues involved in the potential conversion of the diagnostic system of personality disorders from a categorical to a dimensional model. The result suggests that Kernberg's concept of personality organization can be used to indicate the overall severity of personality pathology.

Keywords: DSM-5 Alternative Model for Personality Disorders; categorical classification system; dimensional classification system; personality disorders; personality organization.

MeSH terms

  • Concept Formation*
  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • Humans
  • Personality
  • Personality Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Personality Inventory