The effects of on-line systems training for emotional predictability and problem solving (STEPPS) on impulsivity and self-destructive behaviors of women with borderline personality disorder

Several cognitive behavioral therapy-based treatments have been joined by Systems Training for Emotional Predictability and Problem Solving (STEPPS). This intervention was developed for patients with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The aim was to explore the effects of On-line STEPPS on the impulsivity and self-destructive behaviors of women with BPD. In this quasi-experimental study, forty women with BPD were included and assigned to control and intervention groups. The data were collected by using Barratt impulsiveness scale (BIS) and Self-destructive Behaviors questionnaire. Both the paired sample t test and ANCOVA were also employed to analyze the data. Seventeen patients with a mean age of 27 years (SD = 4.22), completed the 20-week intervention. There were no significant differences between completers and dropouts in terms of age and the scores of BIS and Self-destructive Behaviors questionnaire. STEPPS program significantly reduced the total scores of the BIS subscales and Self-destructive Behaviors questionnaire in the intervention group ( P 0.05). This study demonstrated the successful implementation of the Online STEPPS program in decreasing attentional impulsiveness in women with BPD.