Pathways Between Psychological Trauma and the Development of Personality Disorders

This chapter explores the connection between trauma and personality disorders (PDs). The mindset of a survivor of trauma is examined to elucidate how patterns of behavior evolve after trauma that may lead to the development of character pathology. Psychological etiologic theories coupled with neuroanatomical changes from neuroimaging research are reviewed. Details on both structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging findings specific to PDs in the context of early-life adversity are reviewed. Borderline, schizotypal, paranoid, and antisocial PDs s are highlighted in detail to assess both the psychological and known biological dimensions of the impact of trauma in the formation of these disorders.