Multiple personality as a borderline disorder.

The thesis is developed that multiple personality should not be viewed as an hysterical disorder but rather a borderline disorder. This thesis is supported by an examination of the role of splitting, the process of object-relations formation, and the symptomatology in both disorders. Treatment implications for multiple personality are reviewed. These relate primarily to the role of limit setting, confrontation, and management of negative transference. Finally, a case history is presented and discussed in the light of the thesis and its treatment implications.