Study of the STEPPS Program for Patients with Borderline Personality Disorder and Its Extension to Families Using the Family Connections Program

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying Borderline Personality Disorder BPD, a common and challenging mental health condition, to see if combining treatment programs for patients and their families leads to better outcomes. The study aims to assess the effectiveness and acceptance of these combined intervention programs among patients, families, and clinical professionals, focusing on improving symptoms and family well-being. This is a randomized clinical trial following established research guidelines. The trial compares two groups one receives the STEPPS program for patients alongside the Family Connections program for their families, while the other group receives only the STEPPS program for patients. STEPPS involves cognitive and behavioral treatment focusing on psychoeducation, emotional regulation, and behavioral skills. Family Connections includes psychoeducation, skills training, and peer support for relatives. Participants are randomly assigned to these groups, and family members in the STEPPS-only group may receive Family Connections after the study evaluation period for ethical reasons. Participants will be assessed at the start, immediately after treatment, and six months later using various measures of depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, borderline symptoms, quality of life, and family-related factors. Both patients and family members will complete questionnaires and keep a registry of critical family-patient incidents. The study will monitor acceptance, satisfaction, and clinical changes over time to evaluate the programs feasibility and impact during the trial period.

Application and Effectiveness of the STEPPS in Patients with BPD, Extending to Their Families with the FC Program