Facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships: A concept analysis

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry and Mental Health
• Couple Therapy
• Relationship Psychology

Background:

• Couples with a partner diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD) face significant intra- and inter-personal challenges.
• Constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships are vital for the mental well-being of these couples.
• The concept of facilitating these relationships lacks clear definition and application in clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and define the central concept of 'facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships'.
• To establish a foundational understanding for developing therapeutic interventions for couples impacted by BPD.

Main Methods:

• Utilized findings from a prior study on couples experiencing mental illness.
• Employed concept analysis, synthesis, and inductive reasoning across two distinct phases.
• Defined the concept using dictionary definitions and subject-specific literature.

Main Results:

• Successfully identified and defined the core concept: 'facilitation of constructive intra- and inter-personal relationships'.
• The defined concept provides a unique framework for understanding relationship dynamics in BPD.

Conclusions:

• The defined concept is essential for creating a model to foster healthier relationships.
• This model can serve as a valuable guide for psychiatric nurses and benefit other relationships with similar challenges.