Overview of biologic factors

The methodologies currently in use to explore biologic processes underlying personality disorders are discussed. Specifically, neurotransmitter, genet ic, and imaging research approaches are described. Perhaps true understandi ng of these biologic contributions will come only from research that integr ates all three of these approaches, but these research approaches must be m ore directly tied to behavior. Despite continued progress in these areas, c linicians must appreciate mure fully the interplay of constitutional predis positions and their relationship to coping strategies in response to situat ional and environmental stressors. Appreciating and unraveling the complexi ty of these interwoven processes may lead to the development of psychopharm acologic agents that can provide a pharmacologic "holding environment" that will allow patients the emotional stability to learn and master new coping strategies.