Exploring neurodevelopmental profiles of young people with borderline personality disorder: a feasibility study and clinical research portfolio

Stiles, Ciara A. (2018) Exploring neurodevelopmental profiles of young people with borderline personality disorder: a feasibility study and clinical research portfolio. D Clin Psy thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

Background: Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is the most common of personality disorders presenting in clinical practice. Limited research has been conducted on the potential overlap of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) and personality disorder. However, increasing evidence demonstrates clinical symptom overlap and/or comorbidity between BPD and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Aims: The primary aim was to pilot the feasibility of recruitment of young people with BPD to investigate the prevalence of NDDs. The secondary aim was to investigate profiles of young people with BPD with regards to NDDs, emotion regulation, attachment, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Methods: Participants were recruited from a number of mental health teams and services. Data from psychometric assessment measures were collected over two meetings. Descriptive statistics were completed and exploratory analysis conducted. Results: Twenty-nine young people with BPD, aged between 15 and 33, were recruited. Of this group 58% (n = 17) screened positive for ASD and 80% ( n = 23) for ADHD. Twenty-two (76%) of the participants had experienced at least 1 ACE. This pilot study evidenced feasibility of recruitment of young people with BPD, indicating it could be conducted on a larger-scale. The selected psychometric assessment measures were helpful in facilitating a clearer understanding of the neurodevelopmental profile of young people with BPD. Conclusion: Given the importance of early intervention for young people with BPD, understanding the neurodevelopmental profile of these individuals presenting to mental health services may lead to improved long-term outcomes. The high proportion of participants screening positive for NDDs warrants further research.

• Item Type: Thesis (D Clin Psy)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Keywords: Borderline personality disorder, neurodevelopmental disorder, feasibility, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
• Colleges/Schools: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Supervisor's Name: Gumley, Professor Andrew
• Date of Award: 2018
• Depositing User: Ms Ciara Stiles
• Unique ID: glathesis:2018-30800
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 25 Sep 2018 14:50
• Last Modified: 23 Oct 2018 10:17
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/30800