Objective(s): Interpersonal problems are one of the most persistent difficulties facing those with personality disorders (PDs) and are linked with dysfunction across numerous social domains. Using an interpersonal model of PDs, we examined the indirect effects of Avoidant PD (AvPD) symptoms and social dysfunction through interpersonal problems, as well as Borderline PD (BPD) symptoms and social dysfunction. Methods: Participants were 226 adults taking part in an outpatient treatment program. Results: Using cross-sectional data from self-reported measures, we found that cold (b = 0.10, 95% confidence interval (CI) [0.038, 0.176]) and overly nurturant (b = 0.04, 95% CI [0.001, 0.090]) interpersonal problems showed an indirect association between AvPD symptoms and social dysfunction. The only significant indirect association between BPD symptoms and social dysfunction was overly nurturant (b = 0.05, 95% CI [0.001, 0.120]). Conclusions: Results may aid in the development of more individualized treatments for AvPD and BPD symptoms.

No abstract

Background Absorption is a trait‐like dimension reflecting a tendency to immerse oneself in sensory and imaginative experiences. This characteristic has scarcely been investigated in group psychotherapy. The present study examined absorption in relation to clients′ experience of early group process, and as a moderator of group cohesion and improvement in psychiatric symptoms, in an integrative group treatment programme. Methods Participants included 81 clients, who completed an 18‐week programme of intensive, integrative, group treatment for personality dysfunction. Clients completed assessments of absorption and psychiatric symptom severity, and rated three aspects of group cohesion at week 5 of the programme. Results Absorption was significantly associated with stimulation from the group after controlling for severity of symptoms and personality dysfunction. Moderation analyses found a significant interaction effect for absorption and the stimulation component of group cohesion with regard to symptom improvement. Absorption thus had a moderating effect on the relationship between stimulation from the group and improvement in psychiatric symptoms; for clients with higher levels of absorption, stimulation from group therapy contributed significantly to reduced symptom severity at post‐treatment. Discussion Findings suggest that absorption may be a salient personality feature to consider in group therapy for clients with personality dysfunction. Conclusion Absorption may contribute to treatment outcome, in that clients′ absorption tendencies could interact with their enthusiasm for the group experience, thereby leading to reduced symptoms following intensive group treatment.

No abstract