Mentalizing - the ability to understand oneself and others by inferring
mental states that lie behind overt behaviour - develops within the
context of attachment relationships. It is crucial to self-regulation
and constructive, intimate relationships, both of which are impaired in
personality disorders because of sensitivity to losing mentalizing at
times of anxiety and attachment stress. Loss of mentalizing leads to
interpersonal and social problems, emotional variability, impulsivity,
self-destructive behaviours, and violence.
This practical guide on mentalization-based treatment (MBT) of
personality disorders outlines the mentalizing model of borderline and
antisocial personality disorders and how it translates into clinical
treatment. The book, divided into four parts - the mentalizing
framework, basic mentalizing practice, mentalizing and groups, and
mentalizing systems - covers the aims and structure of treatment,
outlines how patients are introduced to the mentalizing model so that
their personality disorder makes sense to them, explains why certain
interventions are recommended and others are discouraged, and
systematically describes the process of treatment in both group and
individual therapy to support more stable mentalizing.
People with personality disorders commonly have comorbid mental health
problems, such as depression and eating disorders, which complicate
clinical treatment. Therefore, the book advises the clinician on how to
manage comorbidity in treatment. In addition, mentalizing problems in
families and social systems, for example, schools and mental health
services are also covered. A families and carers training and support
guide is provided as families and others are often neglected during the
treatment of people with personality disorder.
The book is a valuable guide for all mental health workers on how to
effectively treat personality disorders.