Abstract
Clinical theorists have suggested that attachment theory and the concept of mentalization are central to understanding Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) psychopathology. This paper reviews a selection of empirical studies that examine the attachment styles of BPD. Insecure attachment was found to be the most characteristic of BPD; however comparison between studies was restricted due to the variety of measures and methodologies employed. The Mentalization Model is evaluated in light of recent research, and Mentalization-based Treatment reviewed for its theoretical roots and empirical research. This review concludes that attachment theory and mentalization can help inform understanding and treatment of BPD. However mentalization is likely not to be the only mechanism by which BPD psychopathology develops and can be treated, and that the Mentalization Model should be applied tentatively. Clinical implications are discussed.