Borderline Personality Symptomatology and Sexual Impulsivity

Abstract

Objective: According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition, borderline personality disorder (BPD) is an Axis II phenomenon that is characterized by impulsivity, including sexual impulsivity. However, little empirical research has been undertaken to confirm and/or define the nature of sexual impulsivity in patients with BPD, which is the focus of the present study. Method: Using a cross-sectional approach and sample of convenience, we surveyed 76 women who were being seen as outpatients in an internal medicine clinic regarding: a) borderline personality symptoms using two measures (i.e., the borderline personality scale of the Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire-4, McLean Screening Inventory for Borderline Personality Disorder); and b) their sexual histories. Results: We found two statistically significant differences—those with borderline personality symptomatology were more likely to have an earlier onset of sexual intercourse as well as to report date rape. Conclusions: Individuals with borderline personality symptomatology report earlier sexual exposure as well as date rape, but not other aspects of sexual impulsivity such a greater number of sexual partners, more frequent treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, etc.