Age-Related Differences in Individual DSM Criteria for Borderline Personality Disorder

This study examined age-related effects of individual DSM criteria for borderline personality disorder & symptoms of depression & anxiety in 3 groups: patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, another personality disorder, or no personality disorder. A mixed clinical & community sample of 380 participants, ages 20-50 years, were studied. Significant interactions were found for personality disorder group x age for the suicidal behaviour & impulsivity criteria that reflected distinctive changes in the borderline personality disorder group. Older individuals with borderline personality disorder reported less impulsivity & fewer suicidal behaviours, although symptoms of distress persisted. (10 refs.)