This article by Dr. Russell Meares, "A Malady of Representations: Dysautonomic Aspects of BPD," explores the often-overlooked physical manifestations of borderline personality disorder (BPD). It highlights how traumatic experiences can leave literal imprints on the body, particularly the skin, which manifest as physical symptoms without a clear medical cause. This phenomenon is linked to a disconnection theory of BPD, where the autonomic nervous system's activity becomes unregulated by higher brain functions, leading to dissociative symptoms. The article discusses various cases illustrating these symptoms and reviews historical and contemporary research on the autonomic dysregulation in BPD, suggesting a need for further investigation into these complex interactions.

  • Understand the disconnection theory of borderline personality disorder (BPD) and its implications for autonomic nervous system regulation.

  • Recognize the physical manifestations of BPD as representations of traumatic memories and their significance in clinical diagnosis.

  • Identify the role of the orbitofrontal cortex in regulating subcortical structures involved in emotional processing and its impact on BPD symptoms.

  • Analyze the concept of "body memories" and how they present in patients with BPD through case studies.

  • Discuss the implications of Stephen Porges' Polyvagal Theory for understanding autonomic dysregulation in BPD and its potential therapeutic applications.

  • Explore historical perspectives on hysteria and their relevance to understanding modern dissociative phenomena in BPD.

Content

    1. A MALADY OF REPRESENTATIONS – Dr. Russell Meares

    1. The Neuropsychotherapist Issue #2 (Full Issue)

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