Gender and Borderline Personality Disorder: a look at relationships and self-view

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This is a mixed-methods, single-arm cross-sectional study with 15 participants across female, nonbinary/trans, and male gender identities who have BPD. It includes a qualitative content analysis to explore how gender shapes relationship experiences and self-perception, and a pilot using the Single-Category Implicit Association Test to prepare for future larger studies on gender- and BPD-related thought patterns. The project examines stigma and gender dynamics in BPD, using both self-reported data and observer-rated measures of mentalization. Eligibility requires a recent BPD diagnosis (within 2 years), informed consent, and proficiency in German or English. The study is conducted at University Hospital Heidelberg and aims to inform future research and interventions addressing gender-related experiences in BPD.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Signed informed consent form
2. Individuals of all genders (target: n=5 with female gender identity, n=5 with nonbinary/trans\*/gender-non-conforming (TGNC) gender identity, n=5 with male gender identity) between the ages of 18 and 65 at the time of consent
3. Individuals with a BPD diagnosis made within the last 2 years (ICD-10: F60.3; DSM-5: 301.83, ICD-11: Borderline qualifier)
4. Understanding of the study procedure, ability and willingness to participate
5. The participant is able to read and understand the informed consent form and can provide a written, personally signed, and dated informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Acute suicidal ideation or acute psychotic symptoms reported by the patient or suspected
2. Insufficient language skills (i.e., knowledge of German or English)

Where it's running

• Institute for Psychosocial Prevention and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Heidelberg
  Heidelberg, Germany Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Sophie Hauschild, Dr. — Institute for Psychosocial Prevention and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Heidelberg
• Study coordinator: Sophie Hauschild, Dr.
• Email: sophie.hauschild@med.uni-heidelberg.de
• Phone: +49 6221 56 5662

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.