Introduction :
Personality disorders (PD) and dysfunctions in the parental environment represent critical diagnostic and therapeutic challenges in clinical neuroscience. This article addresses the neurobiological and behavioral interactions that underlie personality dysfunctions, associating them with adverse emotional experiences in childhood and impaired emotional regulation, emphasizing the importance of an integrative approach.
M is all:
The study uses extensive bibliographic analysis of clinical and experimental data, integrating findings from functional neuroimaging, genetics and neuropsychiatry. Revised protocols included identification of clinical markers and assessment of affective temperaments with validated scales, such as the TEMPS-A. Population and animal samples were examined to elucidate epigenetic and neurofunctional mechanisms, with emphasis on alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and in the dopaminergic and serotonergic pathways.
Results and discussion :
Eight common neurobiological dysfunctions (NCDs) have been identified, including limbic system imbalances, dysfunctional family schemas, and family synchrony deficits, with significant impacts on cognitive and emotional development. Exposure to adverse childhood events (ACEs) has been correlated with epigenetic alterations, such as hypermethylation of the MAOA gene and reduced Ttr expression, amplifying the risk of mental and behavioral disorders in adulthood. Dysfunctional affective temperaments have been associated with distinct psychopathological trajectories, including internalizing symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, and externalizing symptoms, such as aggression and impulsivity.
Evidence highlights the role of family environment and neurobehavioral interactions in intergenerational behavior patterns. “Syndrome Z,” described as a dysfunctional pattern of family neuropsychodynamic interaction, reflects a central mechanism in the transmission of psychopathological traits.
Conclusions :
The neurobiological and integrative approach provided in this study points to the relevance of early interventions that consider both genetic and environmental aspects in mitigating the risks associated with personality disorders. The findings also reinforce the need for greater integration between clinical neuroscience and mental health, with a focus on emotional regulation and neuroplasticity as therapeutic targets.
Reference :
RODRIGUES, Mario Luiz Furlanetto Junior; AGRELA, Fabiano de Abreu. Emotional survival personality microstructure ONCs: the neurobiological origins of personality disorders and dysfunctional parenting. Journal of Biological Innovations, vol. 14, no. 1, p. 45-84, 2025. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46344/JBINO.2025.v14i01.04.
