Comparison of the Effectiveness of Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Analytical Cognitive Psychotherapy in Reducing the Psychological Symptoms of People with Borderline Personality Disorder

Aim and Background: This research aimed to compare the effectiveness of dialectical behavior therapy and analytical cognitive psychotherapy in reducing the psychological symptoms of people with borderline personality disorder. Methods and Materials: This research is an applied research based on the goal. Based on the collection and type of data, it was quantitative and cross-sectional in terms of time. In addition, it was a semi-experimental research design in the form of pre-test-post-test with a control group. The statistical sample of the research was 45 people in a non-random way. They were chosen voluntarily. Multivariate covariance analysis was used in quantitative data and SPSS version 26 statistical program was used. Findings: The research findings indicated that the scores for Borderline Personality Inventory (BPI) and Self-harm Thoughts and Behaviors (STB) were higher for individuals who underwent Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT) compared to those who underwent Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Conclusions: The results of the present study suggest that the Cognitive Analytic approach is more effective than Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Overall, it can be concluded that Cognitive Analytic Psychotherapy, by improving interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation, and self-concept in individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder, helps in reducing impulsive, unplanned, and thoughtless behaviors through a proper patient-therapist relationship, thereby improving the social functioning of these patients.