A Review of the Borderline Diagnosis for Children

Abstract

The concept of the “borderline child” has gained increasing attention in the past JO years. New diagnostic criteria are being proposed, and research is attempting to identify the salient features of the syndrome. This article examines the childhood borderline concept, reviews some new diagnostic systems, identifies the major diagnostic controversies, lists considerations for differential diagnosis, and discusses implications for practice. The intent is to present the state of the art of the diagnosis and to discuss some potential problems with its use. Unique aspects of the childhood syndrome in contrast to the adult disorder are highlighted. Overlap with other disorders, questions about the continuity of symptoms, lack of attention to developmental variables, and countertransference issues are a few of the problems identified.