Borderline Personality Features, Relationship Satisfaction, and Self-Presentation Styles

Author(s): Q. Miller, B. Perry

DOI: https://doi.org/10.65030/jis.011007

Abstract: Borderline personality features have been associated with poorer interpersonal functioning and lower relationship satisfaction, yet factors that may help explain this association remain unclear. The present study examined whether three presentation styles, positive impression management, distress-oriented self-presentation, and defensive presentation (acknowledging fewer negative psychological experiences), mediated the relationship between borderline personality features and relationship satisfaction among 91 university students currently involved in romantic relationships. Participants completed measures of borderline personality features, relationship satisfaction, and presentation styles. Analyses indicated that borderline features were negatively associated with relationship satisfaction. Among the presentation styles examined, only defensive presentation demonstrated a significant indirect effect. Essentially, findings suggest a path whereby individuals with more borderline personality features report less defensive presentation, which in turn is associated with lower relationship satisfaction. The results and possible explanations are discussed.

Keywords: Borderline personality; Relationship satisfaction; Self-presentation; Guardedness; Romantic relationships; Mediation

Article: e011007

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