Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to explore the experiences of inpatient staff members in providing treatment for male patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD).

Methods: Thematic analysis was employed to analyze semi-structured interviews conducted with a diverse sample of inpatient staff members (N=30) working in psychiatric settings. Participants included psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, and social workers, representing a range of professional backgrounds and levels of experience.

Results: Four main themes emerged from the data: (1) Challenges in Diagnosis and Assessment, highlighting difficulties in accurately diagnosing BPD in male patients due to symptom variability and comorbidities; (2) Therapeutic Approaches and Strategies, focusing on the adaptations and innovations in treatment modalities tailored to male patients with BPD, including dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and psychoeducation; (3) Managing Aggression and Impulsivity, addressing the unique challenges posed by male patients' tendencies towards aggression and impulsivity, and the strategies employed by staff to ensure safety and therapeutic progress; and (4) Emotional Impact and Coping Mechanisms, exploring the emotional toll of working with this population and the coping mechanisms utilized by staff to maintain resilience and job satisfaction.

Conclusion: This thematic analysis sheds light on the nuanced experiences of inpatient staff members in treating male patients with BPD. Findings underscore the importance of tailored interventions, comprehensive training, and ongoing support for staff to effectively address the complex needs of this population and enhance treatment outcomes. Future research should further investigate gender-specific manifestations of BPD and evaluate the effectiveness of gender-sensitive treatment approaches.