The empirical basis of dialectical behavior therapy: Summary, critique, and implications.

The empirical literature offered in support and validation of Linehan's dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is critically examined in this article. Although results to date are promising, there remain methodological difficulties in the limited research base that supports this eagerly received clinical approach to borderline personality disorder. Implications for clinical decision making are discussed and suggestions offered as to how future investigations can begin to better substantiate DBT as a thoroughly established clinical approach to treating this challenging disorder.