Do you have a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder? If so, would you like to take part in some research?
Oliver Bonnington, a PhD student at King’s College London, is currently conducting a study looking at the experiences of stigma and discrimination amongst people who have a received a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder.
If you would like to take part, or would like to know more about the study, please feel free to get in touch with Oliver using the contact details provide at the bottom of the page.
Who can take part?
People aged 18 or over, who have a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder.
Informal carers (e.g. close family and friends) of people with a diagnosis of BPD.
What is the study about?
This PhD study looks at the experiences of stigma and discrimination amongst people with a diagnosis of either Borderline Personality Disorder or Bipolar Disorder. The study will also explore the stigma and discrimination experienced by family and friends of people with these diagnoses.
The purpose of the PhD study is to get the perspective on these issues from the people who have first hand experience: the people with the diagnosis and those closest to them.
What does taking part involve?
It involves taking part in a confidential one-to-one interview or small group interview (between 3-5 people) with other people you know with a BPD diagnosis at a location you would feel comfortable in. You will be asked questions about any experiences of stigma and discrimination you have in relation to your diagnosis, but you do not need to have experienced these things to take part.
Interviews would last up to 75 minutes and group interviews would last up to 2 hours. Participation is voluntary and you may withdraw at any time.
What are the benefits of taking part?
If you take part, you will receive £15 for your time, plus the cost of travel and a drink if you want. You will also receive a summary of the final PhD thesis.
How do I take part?
If you are interested in taking part, telephone Oliver Bonnington on 020 7848 0505 or email him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . He is happy to talk through the project and answer any questions you have. (Research Ethics Committee Reference Number: PNM/09/10-90)
