Date of Award
5-2026
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy - School Psychology
Department
Human Services
First Advisor
Luis Aguerrevere
Second Advisor
Nina Ellis-Hervey
Third Advisor
Frankie Clark
Fourth Advisor
Carol Richardson
Abstract
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition that significantly affects individuals' emotional, cognitive, and interpersonal functioning. BPD is characterized by impulsivity, emotional dysregulation, unstable relationships, and self-destructive behaviors, and often results in significant impairment across multiple life domains. Previous research has consistently identified Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), particularly sexual abuse (SA), as key contributors to the development of BPD. These early traumas are closely associated with core features of the disorder, including affective instability, identity disturbance, impulsivity, and maladaptive interpersonal patterns.
Psychotherapeutic interventions, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), have demonstrated significant effectiveness in reducing self-harm, improving emotion regulation, and enhancing interpersonal functioning among individuals with BPD. While pharmacological approaches may assist in treating comorbid conditions like depression or anxiety, psychotherapy remains the cornerstone of effective treatment.
This dissertation employs a retrospective archival methodology to analyze variables predicting a BPD classification and elevations on the PAI-BOR (Borderline Features). Through statistical analysis, this study determined the associations between
BPD diagnosis, BOR scale elevations, trauma history, treatment engagement, and demographic variables. The goal is to identify variables with the highest discriminatory accuracy for distinguishing BPD presentations and diagnoses. By advancing understanding of BPD heterogeneity, this study contributes to the development of trauma-informed and individualized clinical approaches. The findings aim to improve diagnostic specificity, inform treatment planning, and highlight the importance of early identification of etiological factors among individuals at risk for BPD.
Repository Citation
Avendano Gil, Isabel, "PREDICTORS OF ELEVATED BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER AND PAI-BOR SCORES: THE ROLE OF PSYCHOLOGICAL, TRAUMA, AND TREATMENT FACTORS" (2026). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 701.
https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/etds/701
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.
Included in
Behavior and Behavior Mechanisms Commons, Mental Disorders Commons, Other Psychiatry and Psychology Commons, Psychiatric and Mental Health Commons, Psychological Phenomena and Processes Commons
Tell us how this article helped you.
