The Relationship between Cognitive Emotion Regulation Strategies and Defense Mechanisms with Borderline Personality Disorder

The main characteristics of borderline personality disorder are extremely instable and widespread emotions, distorted self-image and interpersonal relationships, as well as remarkable irritability. The purpose of this research is to investigate the relationship between cognitive emotional regulation strategies and defense mechanisms with the symptoms of borderline personality disorder among non-clinical population. In order to conduct this study, 396 students were selected through convenience sampling method and evaluated in terms of cognitive emotional regulation strategies, borderline disorder symptoms, and use of defense mechanisms. Stepwise regression analysis of obtained data revealed that subjects struggling with borderline personality disorder do not use mature defense mechanisms. Additionally, cognitive emotional regulation score is able to predict the extent of impulsivity in borderline personality disorder. Also, catastrophizing from the unadaptable strategies; defense mechanism of reaction formation with component of stress related dissociative and paranoid symptoms from the neurotic defensive mechanisms; defensive mechanism of transition to action, fantasy, and passive aggression from the immature defense mechanisms are related to borderline disorder. The results of the findings show that lack of cognitive emotional dysregulation and maladaptive defensive mechanisms appear to be the core of borderline personality disorder.