New Strategies for Studies With Families in Borderline Personality Disorder: Challenges and Potentialities of the Use of Genogram

Abstract

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a complex condition characterized by emotional instability, interpersonal difficulties, and impulsivity. Although previous studies have explored the influence of family environment on BPD manifestation, methodological gaps remain in investigating these relationships, particularly in capturing multiple perspectives within the same family. This study proposes a methodological approach to compare dyads of patients and a family member using a genogram. The research involved 12 participants (6 patients and 6 family members), analyzing their perceptions of emotional family relationships (such as risk/protective factors) and symptom severity. The results of mixed methods indicated discrepancies between patients and family members regarding two categories of emotional relationships and risk behavior: “Distant/poor” and “Physical Abuse.” This study discusses other potential uses of the genogram for capturing nuances in family relationships and new possibilities for more effective therapeutic interventions.