Factor Structure of Borderline Personality Disorder Criteria

Abstract

Since the DSM-III-R Axis II borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a polythetic categorization, it is both theoretically and clinically important to examine the covariation of the eight BPD criteria. Seventy-five hospitalized female borderline patients were interviewed with an expanded SCID-II and given dimensional ratings on each of the borderline criteria. These dimensional data were used to factor analyze the criteria, and three factors emerged. The first factor reflected identity problems and interpersonal difficulties. A second factor included affect difficulties and self-harm, and a final factor was composed of only the impulsivity criterion. Results are discussed in terms of implications for treatment planning and future work on construct validity.