The examination of borderline personality traits in terms of schema mode model

This study aimed to examine borderline personality traits in a non-clinical sample within the framework of the Schema Therapy Mode Model. In line with this aim, the predictive effects of Dysfunctional Parent Modes, Child Modes, Maladaptive Coping Modes, and the Healthy Adult Mode on borderline personality traits were investigated. Additionally, borderline personality traits were evaluated in terms of early maladaptive schema domains and schema modes. The sample consisted of 544 participants aged between 18 and 65, including 437 women and 107 men. Research data were collected using a demographic information form, The Turkish version of Schema Mod Inventory (Version-3) (SMI), The Young Schema Questionnaire–Short Form 3 (YSQ-SF3) and Borderline Personality Inventory (BPI). Before conducting the analyses, participants were categorized into two groups based on the BPI cut-off score: the Borderline Risk Group and the Non-Risk Group. MANOVA (Multivariate Analysis of Variance) results indicated that the Borderline Risk Group scored higher than the Non-Risk Group in all schema domains. Women participants scored significantly higher than men participants in the Impaired Autonomy and Unrelenting Standarts schema domains. Furthermore, the Borderline Risk Group was found to score higher on all maladaptive modes and lower on adaptive modes compared to the Non-Risk Group. Independent samples t-test results indicated that borderline severity was higher in women. Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted to examine the predictive effects of schema modes on borderline personality traits. According to the analysis results, Angry Child, Impulsive Child, Detached Protector, Detached Self-Soother, and Healthy Adult modes were found to be predictors of borderline traits. The analyzed model explained 56.8% of the variance in borderline personality traits. On the other hand, the Punitive Parent mode alone explained 29.5% of the variance in borderline traits. As a result, the theoretical Mode Model of Borderline Personality Disorder was found to be partially supported. The findings were discussed within the scope of the literature that supports the theoretical framework and practical applications. Keywords: Borderline personality traits, Schema Modes, Early Maladaptive Schemas, Schema Therapy, Schema Mode Model