Dialectical Behavior Therapy: An Effective treatment for Individuals with Comorbid Borderline Personality and Eating Disorder?

Abstract

Patients with either or both Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and an eating disorder face a number of intrapsychic and interpersonal difficulties that have been historically treatment resistant. Dialectical Behavior Therapy, which combines elements of cognitive behavioral therapy and Zen practices, has shown some promise as a potential treatment for patients with comorbid personality and eating disorders. Criticisms of DBT include the limited number of randomized, controlled trials examining the efficacy of the treatment, small sample sizes, and as of yet no clear understanding of the specific mechanisms of action. These limitations aside, DBT is the only treatment considered empirically supported for use with patients who have BPD. The focus on acceptance in the present moment may be particularly beneficial for patients with eating disorders, especially in light of their characteristic lack of acceptance of their bodies. Given the promising results in reducing self-harming behaviors among patients with BPD, further study of this therapy for those with both personality and eating disorders is warranted.