ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the intersection of personality factors and pain, as well as the variables that may account for personality-disordered individuals’ unique perceptions and experiences of pain. Particular attention is given to borderline personality disorder, given that this condition is especially overrepresented within the chronic pain population. When treating this often-marginalized population, utilizing a highly structured, multimodal approach that integrates several therapeutic techniques and theories is recommended. Specifically, the chapter emphasizes acceptance and mindfulness techniques as particularly effective in ameliorating core issues such as avoidance behaviors, catastrophic thought patterns, emotional dysregulation, distress tolerance, and the pain experience itself. Special consideration is given to the therapeutic relationship in the context of these often complex, interpersonally challenging cases. Finally, the chapter reviews interventions within the patient’s immediate environments, as well as within the multidisciplinary medical team at large.
