Hypermentalizing in Borderline Personality Disorder: A Model and Data

Abstract

Interpersonal difficulties are a widely accepted characteristic of borderline personality disorder (BPD). However, the results of empirical findings of deficits in social-cognitive abilities that may underlie interpersonal difficulties in this population have been mixed. In this paper, we review the literature on social-cognitive impairment in BPD by organizing studies based on patterns of positive and negative of findings. We provide a new model of mentalizing impairment in BPD by integrating findings into one framework that suggests hypermentalizing as the core feature of social-cognitive impairment in BPD. We review data in support of a hypermentalizing model of BPD and situate this data in the broader context of current work on hypermentalizing.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Carla Sharp

Carla Sharp, PhD, is an Associate Professor, Director of Clinical Training and Director of the Developmental Psychopathology Lab at the University of Houston. She also directs the research program of the Adolescent Treatment Program of the Menninger Clinic.

Salome Vanwoerden

Salome Vanwoerden is a doctoral student in clinical psychology at the University of Houston. Her research interests include self and other processes in adolescents with a focus on social cognition. She is also interested in family dynamics and attachment processes.