An examination of the world of borderline mothers and children. Dr Lawson describes four basic profiles of the borderline mother: the Waif Mother, the Hermit Mother, the Queen Mother and the Witch. She goes on to demonstrate how to cope with each of these types.

Some readers may recognize their mothers as well as themselves in this book. They will also find specific suggestions for creating healthier relationships. Addressing the adult children of borderlines and the therapists who work with them, Dr. Lawson shows how to care for the waif without rescuing her, to attend to the hermit without feeding her fear, to love the queen without becoming her subject, and to live with the witch without becoming her victim.