Borderline personality disorder affects how individuals relate to others, regulate emotions, and perceive themselves. The McLean Screening Instrument for BPD (MSI-BPD) is a brief, patient completed tool designed to identify symptoms that may be consistent with borderline personality disorder. It focuses on emotional instability, interpersonal difficulties, impulsive behaviors, and disturbances in self image that may indicate the need for a more comprehensive evaluation.
This resource page describes how the MSI-BPD works, what it measures, and how clinicians can incorporate it into routine assessment. Because the tool is concise and easy to complete, it is suitable for primary care, outpatient mental health settings, and initial consultations where symptoms of personality disorder may be present.
A downloadable PDF of the McLean Screening Instrument for BPD is available for clinicians using the download resource button above.
Understanding How the MSI-BPD Works
The MSI-BPD consists of ten yes or no questions addressing core features of borderline personality disorder. The items shown in the uploaded PDF include questions about unstable or conflictual relationships, deliberate self harm or suicide attempts, impulsive behaviors, extreme moodiness, chronic anger or sarcastic behavior, distrust of others, feelings of unreality, chronic emptiness, identity disturbance, and efforts to avoid abandonment. Each endorsed item contributes one point to the total score.
A score of seven or higher on the MSI-BPD has historically been used as a cutoff indicating elevated likelihood of borderline personality disorder, with strong sensitivity and specificity. More recent literature suggests that scores of five or six may also identify individuals who warrant a more detailed clinical assessment. The MSI-BPD is a screening tool only and is not intended to diagnose borderline personality disorder without a full clinical interview. Clinicians can review the complete wording of the items and scoring guidance using the download resource button above.
“Structured screening tools can help clinicians identify personality disorder features that may otherwise go unrecognized during brief clinical encounters.”
— National Institute of Mental Health
Using a standardized screening approach supports early recognition and helps guide further evaluation, treatment planning, and referral to appropriate services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common symptoms include unstable or intense relationships, rapid shifts in mood, impulsive behaviors, chronic feelings of emptiness, anger or irritability, fear of abandonment, and difficulties with self image. Individuals may also experience episodes of self harm or suicidal behavior. Recognizing this pattern can help clinicians provide timely assessment and support.
Borderline personality disorder can affect work, relationships, and emotional stability. Individuals may struggle with maintaining consistent routines, regulating emotions, or managing interpersonal conflict. Understanding the functional impact helps clinicians tailor treatment recommendations.
A combination of genetic vulnerability, early life experiences, chronic stress, and environmental factors may contribute to the development of borderline personality disorder. These factors can influence emotional regulation and interpersonal patterns over time.
Diagnosis involves a structured clinical interview that explores symptoms such as emotional instability, identity disturbance, impulsivity, Interpersonal difficulties, and chronic patterns of distress. Screening tools such as the MSI-BPD can help identify when further assessment is warranted.
Treatment may include psychotherapy approaches such as dialectical behavior therapy or other structured therapies that focus on emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. When appropriate, medication classes such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers may be used to address co occurring symptoms. A collaborative approach supports long term stability and well being.
Conclusion
The McLean Screening Instrument for BPD is a practical and efficient tool for identifying symptoms that may be consistent with borderline personality disorder. Its ten item structure helps clinicians explore core features such as emotional instability, impulsivity, identity disturbance, and interpersonal difficulties. The MSI-BPD supports early recognition and encourages more comprehensive assessment when needed.
Incorporating the MSI-BPD into routine screening can help clinicians identify patterns that may not emerge during brief clinical conversations. The downloadable resource includes the full questionnaire and scoring notes using the download resource button above. The McLean Screening Instrument for BPD contributes to comprehensive personality assessment and supports patient centered care.
The McLean Screening Instrument for BPD helps clinicians monitor symptoms, guide assessment decisions, and support individuals experiencing personality related distress.