The Effect of Coping Skills Training on Early Maladaptive Schemas, Health- Promoting Lifestyle, and Mental Well-Being in Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder

Abstract

Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder face challenges related to early maladaptive schemas, unhealthy lifestyles, and decreased mental well-being. This study aimed to investigate the effects of coping skills training on early maladaptive schemas, health-promoting lifestyle behaviors, and mental well-being in individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder. The research design was quasi-experimental, consisting of a pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages with a control group. The statistical population included individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder visiting counseling centers and psychiatric clinics in Sanandaj in 2023. Thirty participants were purposefully selected and randomly assigned to experimental and control groups,15 people each. Initially, a pre-test was conducted using questionnaires assessing early maladaptive schemas, health-promoting lifestyle, and mental well-being. The experimental group underwent 12 sessions of 90 minutes each (twice a week) of coping skills training. Post-tests, after intervention, and a follow-up were conducted one month later on both groups. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Results indicated that coping skills training significantly reduced early maladaptive schemas and increased health-promoting lifestyle behaviors and mental well-being. It is recommended to apply these findings in counseling and psychotherapy centers for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder.

Keywords

• borderline personality disorder
• coping skills
• health-promoting lifestyle
• mental well-being
• schemas