Personality disorders and eating disorders: the prevalence of personality disorders in 176 female outpatients with eating disorders

Abstract Objective: Previous research on the prevalence of personality disorders (PD) in eating disorder (ED) populations has resulted in inconsistent findings. This may be due to methodological problems such as small or selected populations, use of self‐report measures and lack of formal diagnostic criteria, and to differences between populations. In the present study the prevalence of PD is assessed by structured interview in a large outpatient ED sample. Method: Consecutive female outpatients ( N = 176) with eating disorders (DSM IV) were assessed by Eating Disorder Examination, Present State Examination, and Structured Clinical Interview for DSM III‐R. Results: Thirty‐three per cent fulfilled DSM III‐R diagnostic criteria for at least one PD. Avoidant and dependent PD were the most common specific PDs. Discussion: The prevalence of PD in ED populations may not be as high as previously thought. This study shows that approximately every third ED patient fulfils criteria for at least one PD. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.