Pilot Evaluation of the Newly Developed Borderline Intervention for Work Integration (BIWI)

Work participation is a documented challenge for persons with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Currently, there are few comprehensive interventions focusing on this meaningful occupation. The objective of this study was to conduct a pilot evaluation of a newly developed 9-week group and hybrid intervention called Borderline Intervention for Work Integration (BIWI). Outcomes were measured with the Motivation to find a job and the Barriers to Employment and Coping Efficacy Scale (BECES) questionnaires. In addition, participants ( n = 10) completed a satisfaction survey about the intervention. Two authors filled a journal following each group session. Data was analyzed with a qualitative perspective to produce a final version of the intervention. At the 6 month follow-up, findings show that more than half of the participants ( n = 7) found employment or were actively engaged in a work integration project. Mean scores on Motivation to find a job and BECES improved or remained stable in most participants. The group volunteer activity in the community early on during BIWI was meaningful for all, as well as the opportunity to gain self-awareness as a worker. The online sessions were seen as more challenging. BIWI is a promising work reintegration intervention, personalized to the needs of individuals with BPD.