Response: Personality disorder is here to stay across the lifespan - a response to Commentaries on the May 2022 Debate.

BACKGROUND

The classification of personality disorder is in a state of flux. Revision is necessary, overdue, and is provided by the new ICD-11 classification.

AIMS: To explain the advantages of the new classification system and why 'borderlne' is a redundant term. To summarise positive and negative views about its implications, especially in young people.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Review of recent literature and developments.

RESULTS

Personality disturbance is ubiquitous and changes across the life span. The data are unequivocal.

DISCUSSION: As personality disturbance is so common in childhood and adolescence it should be recognised and acknowledged at this time even though it is very likely to change.

CONCLUSIONS

The stigma surrounding personality disorder can be countered by science and courage.