Alternative DSM-5 Model for Personality Disorders 775TABLE 2 Level of Personality Functioning Scale
SELF INTERPERSONAL
Level of 
impairment Identity Self-d irection Empathy Intimacy
0—Little or no 
impairmentHas ongoing awareness of a 
unique self; maintains role-
appropriate boundaries.
Has consistent and self-regulated 
positive self-esteem, with accu-
rate self-appraisal.
Is capable of experiencing, toler-
ating, and regulating a full 
range of emotions.Sets and aspires to reasonable 
goals based on a realistic 
assessment of personal 
capacities.
Utilizes appropriate stan-
dards of behavior, attaining 
fulfillment in multiple 
realms.
Can reflect on, and make con-
structive meaning of, inter-
nal experience.Is capable of accurately under-
standing others’ experiences 
and motivations in most situ-
ations.
Comprehends and appreciates 
others’ perspectives, even if 
disagreeing.
Is aware of the effect of own 
actions on others.Maintains multiple satisfying and 
enduring relationships in personal 
and community life.
Desires and engages in a number of 
caring, close, and reciprocal rela-
tionships.
Strives for cooperation and mutual 
benefit and flexibly responds to a 
range of others’ ideas, emotions, 
and behaviors.
1—Some 
impairmentHas relatively intact sense of self, 
with some decrease in clarity of 
boundaries when strong emo-
tions and mental distress are 
experienced.
Self-esteem dimini shed at times, 
with overly critical or some-
what distorted self-appraisal.
Strong emotions may be distress-