PERSONALITY-DISORDERS AND DEPRESSION - HYPOTHETICAL RELATIONS, EMPIRICAL-FINDINGS, AND METHODOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Concurrent personality disorders are frequently observed among depressed persons. Studies reporting the prevalence of personality disorders in depressed samples generally suggest a 30% to 70% comorbidity rate. The comorbidity of personality disorders and depression is an important area for consideration, as this association has implications for the assessment of depression and personality disorders, treatment choice and outcome, and treatment outcome evaluation. This article reviews the various hypotheses concerning the relationship between personality disorders and depression, summarizes findings from the literature pertaining to this relationship, and discusses relevant methodological considerations. The association between borderline personality disorder and depression is highlighted to illustrate some of the pertinent conceptual and methodological issues. Clinical implications related to the association between personality disorders and depression as well as suggestions for future research are delineated. © 1990.