Suicidal attempts in young adults with borderline personality disorder: Examing factors in pathways to attempts

This study examines predictors of suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts in young adults aged 18-25 diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Emotional dysregulation, impulsivity, and interpersonal difficulties were explored as potential risk factors for suicidal behavior.

A sample of 500 young adults with BPD completed self-report measures assessing emotional regulation, impulsivity, suicidal ideation, planning, and suicide attempts. Multiple regression and logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify key predictors of suicidal behavior.

Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity significantly predicted suicidal ideation and attempts, while interpersonal difficulties were more strongly linked to suicide planning. Notably, 18% of participants reported attempting suicide without prior ideation or planning, suggesting the presence of non-linear pathways to suicidal behavior.

Emotional dysregulation and impulsivity are critical factors in predicting suicidal behavior in young adults with BPD. The findings highlight the need for suicide risk assessments that consider non-linear pathways and impulsive behavior in this high-risk population.