Metacognition, Borderline Pathology and Psychotherapeutic Change: A Single-Case Study

Abstract

The aim of this study is to analyze whether: (a) a specific type of metacognitive deficit is present in a patient with Borderline Personality Disorder; (b) a metacognitive improvement can be detected during the psychotherapy treatment; (c) if this improvement can be indicative of the effectiveness of psychotherapy itself. A single case study has been conducted; metacognitive deficits have been measured with the Metacognition Assessment Scale (MAS). In line with the hypothesis, the results show a global and progressive improvement of meta-cognitive functions. We conclude in agreement with the current literature, the existence of a major deficit in Differentiation and Integration subfunctions (belonging to Self-reflexivity), compared to Characterization and Relation between variables subfunctions (belonging to Metacognitive monitoring).

Keywords

• Metacognition
• Borderline
• Personality Disorder
• Single Case