The Research Group for Personality Psychiatry is a cross-regional collaboration between researchers and clinicians specifically focused on personality disorders.
Personality disorders (PD) refer to pervasive mental disorders associated with central aspects of personality functioning (emotionality, identity, empathy and intimacy) and following mental burden and maladaptive behavior. Classification of PD has traditionally defined specific categories with characteristic manifestations (DSM-5 and ICD 10). Recent classification includes an overall dimensional assessment of personality functioning across categories (ICD 11). The Research Group for Personality Psychiatry emphasizes studies that contribute to validating and developing PD classification, feasible assessment methods and clinically relevant psychometrics.
Effective treatments are mainly documented for borderline PD. By piloting treatment adapted for less researched PD conditions (antisocial PD, avoidant PD, PD with complex PTSD), the Research Group for Personality Psychiatry holds several innovative research areas. In collaboration with the Norwegian Network for Personality Disorders, and by using both quantitative and qualitative research designs, the Research Group for Personality Psychiatry aims to expand knowledge on clinical and economic utility of PD treatments within specialist health services, PD treatment processes, and the significance of differences in PD type, severity and comorbidities.
Translational research bridges different clinical expertise and can contribute to increase knowledge. The Research Group for Personality Psychiatry collaborates across disciplines. Research projects are established within adult psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry and child welfare, and fields of substance abuse and pain. Investigation of hospitalized patients with severe self-harm adds knowledge on complex comorbidity and collaboration across service levels. Establishment of a biobank provides opportunity for focus on genetic and immunological aspects.
Our research aims to
- increase knowledge on personality disorders
- improve accuracy of assessment and diagnoses
- improve quality of treatment
Read more about personality disorders on Oslo University Hospital's website (text in Norwegian).
Our research projects focus on
- core aspects of personality disorder, comorbidity and genetics
- personality disorder classification and assessment
- treatment and habilitation, effects, clinical utility, and costs
Read more about our research projects here
We collaborate with
- clinicians
- people with lived experience
- researchers and research environments
Read more about our collaborations and clinical networks here
Join the research group
The research group has weekly digital meetings. We aim to include members with research competence and relevant interests within the field of personality disorder.
Contact group leader: Elfrida Hartveit Kvarstein
