DSM-III PERSONALITY-DISORDERS IN THE COMMUNITY

Objective: The aims of this study were to estimate the prevalence and investigate the comorbidity and potential consequences of DSM-LII pers onality disorders in the community. Method: A total of 810 adults were examined in the second stage of the Eastern Baltimore Mental Health S urvey in 1981, part of the National Institute of Mental Health Epidemi ologic Catchment Area program. The subjects were directly examined by psychiatrists using a semistructured method that allowed diagnosis of all DSM-III personality disorders as well as other DSM-III psychiatric disorders. Results: The prevalence of personality disorders in these adults was 5.9% (9.3% when provisional cases were included). Men had h igher rates than women, and subjects who were separated or divorced ha d the highest rates. There was little comorbidity among specific perso nality disorders, Subjects with personality disorders were significant ly more likely to have a history of sexual dysfunctions, alcohol use d isorders, and drug use disorders as well as suicidal thoughts and atte mpts. In addition, they reported significantly more life events in the past year. Among subjects with any axis I disorder, those with person ality disorders were judged by the psychiatrists to be more in need of treatment; however, only 21% were receiving treatment. Conclusions: P ersonality disorders are relatively common in the community. They are associated with axis I disorders and life events. Only one-fifth of th e individuals who qualify for diagnoses of personality disorders in th e community are receiving treatment.