Genetics of personality disorders: perspectives from personality and psychopathology research

Psychol Bull. 1994 May;115(3):346-80. doi: 10.1037/0033-2909.115.3.346.

Abstract

Although the field is young, studies pertinent to genetic hypotheses have accumulated for several personality disorders. Genetic links to personality disorders from the domains of normal personality and Axis I disorders are reviewed. Evidence of a link to schizophrenia is clearest for schizotypal and less conclusive for paranoid and schizoid personality disorders. A genetic association between borderline personality disorder and affective disorders has not been clearly supported, but there may be a subtype genetically linked to affective disorders. Evidence of genetic influence is mixed for obsessive-compulsive personality disorder. In general, greater attention to dimensional phenotypic measures and multivariate designs can yield more definitive answers regarding the correct subtyping and probable etiology of personality disorders.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diseases in Twins / genetics
  • Diseases in Twins / psychology
  • Humans
  • Models, Genetic
  • Personality Disorders / diagnosis
  • Personality Disorders / genetics*
  • Personality Disorders / psychology
  • Phenotype
  • Psychiatric Status Rating Scales