Personality and Psychopathology

This tersely written, yet broad-ranging volume illustrates that the subject of personality and psychopathology has grown rapidly in the past decade and now encompasses an impressive mix of carefully researched studies, clearly articulated theories, and well-documented applications to clinical practice. A roster of authoritative scholars and researchers illuminate the latest thinking on topics such as: What is normal personality? What is a personality disorder? What causes good and bad personality development? A number of papers derive their impetus from Dr. Cloninger's own elegant theory. One need not be a follower of Cloninger's model, however, to appreciate the depth of insight which he and his associates have brought to the study of personality disorders, a field that is now greatly enriched by this contribution to the literature. Theodore Millon, Ph.D., Dean and Scientific Director, Institute for Advanced Studies in Personality and Psychopathology, Coral Gables, Florida This multi-authored and well-edited volume is an important contribution to our understanding of the relationship of early childhood development and subsequent adult psychopathology. Research into personality assessment is well reviewed. Effects of genetic and psychosocial aspects of personality development are discussed and treatment outcome of personality disorders, from both a psychological and a pharmacological perspective, is presented. This comprehensive volume is an important contribution to our understanding of the role of personality, temperament and character and their relationships to the development of adult psychopathological disturbances. David L. Dunner, M.D., Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Director, Center for Anxiety and Depression, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington

It analyzes the association between personality and psychopathology from several interlocking perspectives—descriptive, developmental, etiological, and therapeutic—concluding that the association is strong and important, no matter what angle it is considered from.

Personality and Psychopathology compiles the conclusions of more than 30 internationally recognized experts who each carefully examine the link between personality traits and psychopathology. Recent findings have clarified the importance of personality in the development and expression of psychopathology.

In light of such discoveries, this reference examines the relationship of personality traits with psychopathology from several interlocking perspectives—descriptive, developmental, etiological, and therapeutic. It successfully tackles

• A description of the frequency and patterns of overlap between personality and psychopathology
• The structure and stability of normal personality traits across the life span and their relation to psychopathology
• An analysis of personality disorders from three different approaches
• The causes of individual differences in personality and psychopathology from genetic, psychosocial, and neurobiological perspectives
• The role of personality in the treatment of psychopathology

Complete with illustrative charts, this all-inclusive resource provides invaluable information on the link between personality and psychopathology.