Examining Moderators and Dyadic Effects of Borderline Personality Features on Mate Retention

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is associated with a number of relationship processes. To expand on this, relationship between borderline personality features (BPF; i.e., a non-clinical assessment of BPD) and mate retention was explored. In the first study, we investigated the relationship between BPF, relationship-contingent self-esteem (RCSE), and mate retention behaviors. We also tested whether threat to the relationship moderated this relationship. It was found that borderline traits predicted cost-inflicting mate retention behaviors, whereas RCSE predicted benefit-provisioning mate retention behaviors. In the second study, we explored the dyadic effects of BPF on mate retention strategies across 256 couples. Notably, partner effects emerged for BPF on cost-inflicting behaviors. Together, these studies provide insight to the relationship functioning of those with BPF.