Exploring Genders Impact on Relationships and Self-Perception in Adults with Borderline Personality Disorder Pilot Study Using Implicit Association Tests to Understand Gender- and BPD-Related Thought Processes

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to explore how gender influences relationship experiences and self-perception among adults diagnosed with borderline personality disorder BPD. The study focuses on individuals with diverse gender identities to better understand gender-related effects on mental health, stigma, and identity in BPD. It also pilots the use of Single-Category Implicit Association Tests SC-IATs to measure implicit gender- and BPD-related thought processes in this population. Participants will attend two study sessions. The first session is on-site and lasts about 4 hours, including computer tasks with three SC-IATs, a semi-structured interview about gender experiences, and questionnaires on well-being and stigma. The second session is an online survey conducted 6 to 12 months later to gather feedback on preliminary interview results. Data collection includes interviews, computer-based tests, and self-reported questionnaires. Throughout the study, participants provide pseudonymized data, and confidentiality is carefully maintained. Researchers assess mentalization ability, psychological symptoms, and quality of life, along with SC-IAT performance measures. The study includes qualitative and quantitative analyses to understand genders role in BPD and evaluates the SC-IATs suitability for this research. Participation lasts from initial assessment through the follow-up survey approximately one year later.

The Role of Gender in Borderline Personality Disorder