Sexual behaviour and borderline personality disorder among female psychiatric inpatients

Abstract

Objective. The objective of the present study was to explore various facets of sexual behaviour in those with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Method. Using a cross-sectional approach and a sample of convenience, we surveyed 126 female psychiatric inpatients regarding their sexual histories as well as BPD symptoms on two self-report measures. Results. Compared to participants who were not positive on both measures of BPD (the nonBPD group; n = 52), those who were positive on both measures (the BPD group; n = 70) reported a greater number of sexual partners, and were more likely to report having been raped by a stranger and having been coerced to have sex. There were no between-group differences with regard to age at menarche, age of first intercourse, total number of times treated for a sexually transmitted disease, having experienced date rape or rape by a partner, or having had homosexual experiences. Conclusions. The psychological themes associated with the positive findings in this study appear to reflect both impulsivity and victimization – psychological themes that are evident in other behaviours in those with BPD.