Lecture 9 Flashcards
mentalizing foster therapy (MBT)
a structure, standardized therapy for treatment of borderline PD. MBT is based on attachment theory and focuses on improving individuals’ ability to understand both their own and others’ intentional mental states
what does MBT help improve
MBT helps improve mentalizing, reduce inappropriate coping behaviors, improve interpersonal relationships and promote social functioning
3 overreaching themes related to the experiences of user undergoing outpatient MBT for difficulties with BPD
- ‘being borderline’
- being in the group
- being on a journey
‘being borderline’
this theme represents participants’ experiences with the BPD diagnosis and their attempts to make meaning of it within the context of therapy. most found their diagnosis helpful in some way, and some identified with their BPD. they also adopted the language of therapy, repeating MBT terminology. the importance of therapeutic relationships and qualities of therapists were also underlined.
being in the group
this theme focuses on participants experince in group therapy, in terms of being safe and connected. Participants described both positive and negative effects. Some felt frustrated and rejected by the group therapist, while others felt highly valued by their therapist.
being on a journey
being on a journey describes the experiences of MBT participants, including their expectations and hopes for therapy, their journey thru therapy, and their experiences with change. symptom reduction was a common feature of the changes, but half of the participants also described how their changes extended beyond the therapeutic setting to relationships and other aspects of their lives
variety in participants experiences of therapeutic journe
some viewed it as a roller coaster, while other perceived the process as relatively even
Limitations of Gardner et al.
small sample size, lack of diversity among participants
clinical and research
first clinicians should closely monitor participants experiences with the diagnosis and provide support. Second, the effect of participation in MBT, especially in group therapy, should be monitored and evaluated. finally there should be an in-depth exploration of experienced positive and negative feelings during therapy to identify posttraumatic growth rather than distress
what PDs can MBT treat
borderline and antisocial PDs
who may not benefit from MBT
people who are motivated to participate in therapy, or who use serious substances or have other comorbid disorders
