Borderline personality disorder: exceptions to the concept of responsible and competent

Abstract

Aim: This article examines whether neurocognitive deficits or age prevents people with borderline personality disorder from being considered responsible and competent.

Method: A review of the literature was undertaken relating to borderline personality disorder (BPD), personal responsibility and competency.

Result: Neither neurobiological differences nor age automatically disqualify the person with BPD from being responsible and competent for decisions relating to their own life and death.

Conclusion: Clinical, legal and ethical literature support this result and thereby re-establishes a basis for the recognition and respect of an individual's dignity.

Key words::

• borderline personality disorder
• competent
• responsible

DISCLOSURE

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.