Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
M.A in General Psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
2
Professor of psychology, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Education and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract
Introduction: The clinical symptoms of borderline personality disorder typically begin in early adulthood and severely disrupt an individual's functioning in various areas, especially interpersonal relationships. Therefore, it is essential to examine the factors that play a role in the development of the core of borderline personality disorder.The purpose of the current research is to model the structural relationships of borderline personality symptoms in adolescents based on object relations and childhood trauma, considering the mediating role of mentalization capacity.
Method: The current research employs a descriptive and correlational research design. A sample of 342 individuals was selected from secondary school students in Babolsar city using a multi-stage cluster random sampling method. The variables were measured using Borderline Personality Features Scale for Children (Crick, 2005), Bell Relationship Inventory For Adolescents (Morris Bell, 2003), Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (Bernstein et al., 2003), and Reflective Functioning Questionnaire for Youth (Sharp et al., 2009). To analyze the collected data, both SPSS24 and SMART PLS3,2,8 software were utilized.
Result: The results indicated that maladaptive object relations and childhood trauma have a direct and indirect impact on borderline personality traits through weakened mentalizing abilities.
Discussion and conclusion: Based on the findings of the research, it can be concluded that dysfunctional object relations and childhood trauma can independently predict borderline personality symptoms in adolescence. Additionally, object relations and childhood trauma can hinder the development of mentalization and, through disrupting the formation of this crucial ability, create a foundation for the emergence of borderline personality features in adolescence. Understanding the significance of early object relations, traumatic experiences in childhood, and mentalization capacity as influential factors in the onset of borderline personality features can lead to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms involved. This understanding, in turn, may pave the way for preventive measures during adolescence and earlier ages.
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