A training program for family members of patients with borderline personality disorder based on dialectical behaviour therapy

Family members of patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD) experience suffering, anxiety, and depression, and are involved in a dysfunctional family atmosphere. Although effective treatments for patients with BPD have been developed, family members have received less attention. The aim of this paper was to adapt the dialectical behaviour therapy skills training group for family members in 14 sessions. The sample comprised 12 family members: 50% mothers, 41.7% fathers, and 8.3% partners. The levels of depression (BDI-II), anxiety (OASIS) and expressed emotion (LEE-S) were measured before and after the intervention. The results show a statistical and clinical improvement in depression, and a clinically significant improvement in anxiety, hostility, lack of tolerance and expressed emotion after the intervention. Negative attitude toward illness presents a statistical improvement. Furthermore, intrusion increases both statistically and clinically. However, the levels of intrusion are equal to those in the general population. Further research into the effectiveness of family interventions is essential.