Aims & Background Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS) is a group treatment for individuals with a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) which has a growing evidence base, particularly in the US. Evidence is sparse for its use with UK populations, and this study seeks to assess the reliability of this evidence, whilst adding to existing knowledge through the use of additional measures. Method Thirty patients completed one of four STEPPS groups. Data regarding symptom severity, quality of life and affinity for maladaptive schemas were collected at the start and end of the group to allow pairwise analysis. Results Significant reductions in symptom severity and affinity for maladaptive schemas were in evidence, as well as highly significant increases in patients' self-reported quality of life. Implications The results provide further evidence for the efficacy of STEPPS with a UK sample of patients with a diagnosis of BPD, though limitations with the design of this study warrant caution. They also show that the programme achieves this level of efficacy when delivered by facilitators who are not intensively trained in psychological treatment models. As such, the STEPPS programme provides a resourceful approach to the treatment of BPD in a UK community-based setting.
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