Trait emotional intelligence and borderline personality disorder

• Main Author: Sinclair, H E
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01-01-2010

Part 1: The Literature Review explores the association between Trait Emotional Intelligence (TEl) and emotion regulation (ER). Twenty-four studies met the review's inclusion criteria and their contributions to the TEl and ER literature are discussed. The studies suggest that high TEl is linked with a greater sensitivity to emotional information and enhanced ER ability. The review concludes that TEl may be an interesting and important concept for further investigation, especially in populations with ER difficulties. Part 2: The Empirical Paper explores the associations between TEl, ER difficulties, and mindfulness ability in those with and without a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). TEl, ER difficulty, and mindfulness scores were found to be correlated for the entire sample. Individuals with a diagnosis of BPD reported statistically significantly lower TEl, greater difficulties in ER and reduced mindfulness skills compared to the Non-Clinical sample. The research and clinical implications of the study, along with its limitations, are discussed. Part 3: The Critical Appraisal reflects on the personal motivations for the research. In addition, process issues which arose from the research are discussed. Finally, in reference to the clinical implications of the study, further areas for investigation are considered and recommendations made.