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Interconnectedness of borderline personality pathology and affective temperaments in patients with mood disorders: a network analysis

Hyukjun Lee, Yewon Eom, Jakyung Lee, Daseul Lee, Hyeona Yu, H. Kang, Jungkyu Park, W. Myung

Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 2025

720 participants · 1 citation

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Mood disorders frequently coexist with borderline personality pathology (BPP), presenting considerable clinical challenges. Affective temperaments (AT) play a role in modulating mood disorders and influence the manifestation of illness. BPP and AT share common characteristics, such as emotional instability, impulsivity, and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. However, research on the relationship between BPP and AT remains limited. This study employed network analysis to explore the network structure between BPP and AT in a cohort of patients with mood disorders. Materials and methods A total of 720 patients with mood disorders (major depressive disorder, n = 267; bipolar affective disorder, n = 453) were included in the analysis. The Personality Assessment Inventory-Borderline Features Scale (PAI-BOR) and the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris, and San Diego-Auto questionnaire short version (TEMPS-A) were utilized. Network analysis was conducted to identify central symptoms and network structures across the five AT dimensions and 24 BPP items. Results The BPP and TEMPS-A items were intricately interwoven, with no distinct groupings. The most significant symptoms identified were “Mood shifts” and “Cyclothymic temperament.” Additionally, irritable temperament was strongly linked to "Little control over anger," while anxious temperament was closely associated with "Worry about people leaving.” Conclusion The overlap of BPP and AT in the…

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 720 participants or records.

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