Presentation Information
[SY-101-02]Cultural aspects of borderline personality disorder and ADHD
*Nader PERROUD (University of Geneva and University Hospitals of Geneva(Switzerland))
Keywords:
Borderline personality disorder,ADHD,culture
We will explore how cultural context shapes the presentation, interpretation, and management of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Drawing from clinical practice in a multicultural urban setting, we highlight how core symptoms—such as impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, and inattention—are perceived differently across cultures. In some contexts, BPD traits may be normalized or pathologized based on relational norms, while ADHD behaviors are often attributed to upbringing rather than neurodevelopmental factors. These cultural interpretations can lead to misdiagnosis, affect therapeutic engagement, and contribute to disparities in access to care. We will underscore the importance of cultural competence in psychiatric evaluation and suggest that a transcultural framework can enhance diagnostic accuracy and patient-centered care. By integrating cultural identity, migration history, and social norms into the clinical process, mental health practitioners can better support diverse populations with BPD and ADHD.