Two to tango: a dyadic analysis of links between borderline personality traits and intimate partner violence

Although research has shown links between borderline personality and intimate partner violence (IPV), few studies have examined how each partner's personality traits may influence the other's behavior (Hines, 2008). This study incorporated dimensional assessments of borderline personality organization (BPO) in both partners into a dyadic model that examined associations with IPV. In a community sample of 109 couples, an Actor-Partner Interdependence Model was used to examine links between BPO traits in each partner and victimization and perpetration of IPV. Men's level of BPO traits was associated with more IPV toward and more victimization by their partners. Women's level of BPO traits was associated with their victimization only. This study is unique in examining links between BPO and IPV in couples using analyses that account for the interdependence of these variables in dyads.