NCJ Number
210433
Journal
Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health Volume: 15 Issue: 1 Dated: 2005 Pages: 2-16
Date Published
2005
Length
15 pages
Annotation
This evaluation of three British pilot programs examined the viability of delivering dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for female inmates diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Abstract
BPD is characterized by impulsivity, severely reactive mood swings, unstable interpersonal relationships, hostility, chronic feelings of emptiness, and a tendency toward self-harm. DBT, which was developed over two decades by Marsha Linehan as an intervention for BPD in the general population, is a biosocial aetiological model that views BPD as rooted in emotional vulnerability combined with an invalidating environment. DBT focuses on the development of group skills, dealing with posttraumatic stress, and the building of self-esteem through both group and individual therapy. Evaluation measures for the pilot programs included psychometric tests, behavioral data, and interviews with participants and key personnel. Sixteen of the 30 women who began the programs completed them. Fourteen completed all measures. Five of eight control participants on the waiting list for program participation also completed the testing. A significant majority of program completers showed overall improvement in psychometric data, often reaching statistical significance, while there was no significant overall change in the control group. Results are considered tentative because of the small sample size. Lessons learned for future implementation in correctional settings are discussed. 2 tables and 37 references