Clinical Profile of Borderline Personality Disorder in North India

This study examined specific features in Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) patients and attempted to offer a comprehensive analysis of BPD patients using case history method and mental status examination. Eight cases of BPD, identified using DSM-IV-TR criteria and semi-structured interview schedule including DIB-R (Diagnostic Interview for Borderlines-Revised) Symptoms, were drawn from the Nur Manzil Psychiatric Centre, Lucknow, Ravideep Clinic, Allahabad and Counseling Centre, Allahabad University. Case study data were analyzed by identifying the themes as features of BPD and broader categories as areas of difficulty. The common and unique features of BPD along with the general trends of the disorder were examined in the interviews of cases. A list of commonly found defining characteristics of BPD such as substance abuse, suicidality, academic failure, social dysfunction, dependency on others and personal distress were identified. The results indicated that marked impairments exist in significant areas of the patients’ life, such as intimate relationships and occupational functioning. A major problem encountered in Indian clinical population was the family attitude. Attitude of the patients’ family members was a barrier in seeking therapy. BPD features can be drawn from the social foundations of personal experience as the reality of personal distress is socially constructed and shaped. © 2014, National Academy of Psychology (NAOP) India.