<P>Treating personality disorders can be extremely frustrating for clinicians. As a result, many doctors get caught in a cycle of diagnosing and rediagnosing in an attempt to find an approach that works. In <I>Personality Disorders Over Time: Precursors, Course, and Outcome,</I> Joel Paris, M.D., proposes a better approach-one based on management rather than cure-that he developed while following a group of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) for over 25 years.<P>Paris believes that the key to effective treatment of personality disorders lies in understanding their progression over a lifetime. In <I>Personality Disorders Over Time</I>, he outlines a sound framework for treatment that features <ul>? A realistic long-term treatment approach that strives for gradual recovery with intermittent interventions? An examination of the progression of these disorders over time, including childhood precursors, course and outcome, and treatment? A general theory of personality disorders, including Axis I and Axis II cluster disorders? Suggestions for a broader, more accurate DSM classification reflecting the personality trait dimensions that underlie disorders </ul><P>Written in the first person, studded with clinical anecdotes, and filled with up-to-date literature references, <I>Personality Disorders Over Time</I> provides fascinating insights into these complicated disorders. It is an excellent resource for any clinician who wants to understand and provide more effective treatment to patients with personality disorders.</P>