Publication Type

Journal Article

Version

acceptedVersion

Publication Date

4-2022

Abstract

Many studies have found that borderline personality disorder (BPD) is associated with romantic relationship instability, with relationship dissolution being a recurring theme. Scant research, however, has examined the dissolution strategies and post-breakup outcomes for individuals with elevated levels of borderline traits. Findings from two studies revealed that there was an association between BPD criteria and tendency to employ less adaptive dissolution strategies when terminating a relationship. Furthermore, elevated levels of BPD traits were associated with less self-concept clarity and more unwanted pursuit of ex-partners. These findings both provide insight into how individuals with BPD traits experience relationship dissolution and suggest possible factors underlying the unstable relationship processes typically associated with borderline traits.

Keywords

Borderline personality disorder, close relationship, relationship dissolution, relationship dissolution strategies

Discipline

Personality and Social Contexts | Social Psychology

Research Areas

Psychology

Publication

Journal of Personality Disorders

Volume

36

Issue

2

First Page

1

Last Page

35

ISSN

0885-579X

Identifier

10.1521/pedi_2021_35_533

Publisher

Guilford Press

Copyright Owner and License

Authors

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.1521/pedi_2021_35_533

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