FACTORS PREDICTING OUTCOME OF PSYCHIATRIC-HOSPITAL TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH BORDERLINE PERSONALITY ORGANIZATION

The aim of the present study was to identify factors predicting the ou tcome of psychiatric hospital treatment carried out on a ward speciali zing in psychotherapeutic treatment of borderline personality disorder s. The sample-included patients admitted during 1989 to an open psychi atric ward at the Department of Psychiatry of Kuopio University Hospit al in Finland (n=66). The success of treatment was assessed by means o f the Beck and Hamilton depression scales, on the basis of which the s ample was divided into two groups: those who benefited from treatment and those who did not. Fifty independent variables reflecting the pati ents' background, previous treatment and expectations were evaluated. A statistically significant association was found between 14 variables and the outcome of the treatment. A good outcome was predicted by sub jective symptoms such as tension and suicidal tendencies at the beginn ing of treatment and a poor outcome by fear of delusions. Active and p ositive expectations of symptom decline and treatment benefit also pre dicted a good outcome. The background variables, previous treatment an d medical diagnosis did not differentiate between those who benefited from treatment and those who did not. Medication during treatment, use of benzodiazepines in particular, was usually associated with a good outcome. The best results were obtained in patients with mild disorder s. We conclude that in crisis situations, non-psychotic patients also benefit from inpatient treatment lasting longer than the immediate all eviation of symptoms would require. The nature of the symptoms and exp ectations of the treatment outcome have predictive value.