The Correlates and Predictors of Borderline Personality Disorder Symptoms

Abstract

The proposed study aimed to examine the correlates and predictors of borderline personality symptomatology – a mental health condition that peaks during young adulthood. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a condition characterized by difficulties regulating emotion. A review of the extant clinical literature revealed a strong association between perceived negative parenting styles and early maladaptive schemas (EMS). Studies have also shown a strong association between BPD symptoms, poor academic standing, and poor social problem solving skills. Our primary objective was to identify and examine the correlates and predictors of BPD symptoms in a non-clinical college sample. In the present cross-sectional study, we examined the relationship between BPD symptoms, perceived negative parenting, and early maladaptive schemas. We also examined the extent to which the effect of BPD negatively impacts overall well-being as assessed by academic performance and social problem solving. The sample consisted of undergraduates (N=72). Students completed a confidential online survey assessing borderline personality features, the presence of maladaptive schemas, perceived parent rearing behaviors, and social problem solving skills. Bivariate and multivariate analyses revealed a significant association between BPD symptoms and poor social problem solving skills. Our results also showed a significant association between symptoms and number of early maladaptive schemas. Our analyses also showed a strong association between symptoms and overprotective and rejecting parenting styles. These findings have the potential to inform treatment and support plans for adolescents and young adults to prevent a future clinical diagnosis.