In contrast to psychopharmacological treatment, the current evidence base in psychotherapy for people with IDD is limited. But psychotherapeutic approaches offer an alternative treatment modality in people with IDD.

Orientated on the “Dialectic-Behaviour-Therapy” concept, we developed an adapted manual for people with IDD and impulsive behaviour.

This study presents the first results of an evaluation our adapted DBT manual.

Three closed groups with 11 patients in total were prospectively included in a six-week in-patient psychotherapeutic DBT-programme. There was no randomisation or control group. Typical borderline symptoms (BS) were recorded using the “Borderline Symptom List” (BSL) and a short screening version for personality disorders (PSS-K). Impulsivity and behaviour in general were observed with the scale for impulsiveness and emotional deregulation (IES) and the German Developmental Behavioural Checklist (VFE). Special tendencies to self-harm were assessed using the scale for self-harm behaviour (IEFAS). From these scales, the means were observed during the course of our hospital therapy program over 6 weeks.

There were 19 patients in total in 3 different groups. Eight dropped out for a variety of reasons. The mean scores for the remaining 11 patients in the BSL and PSS-K reduced significantly. The scores for impulsivity and self-harm improved. Overall, there was no significant change in behaviour.

This study presents the results of a trial of a DBT manual for people with IDD and BS. In general the BS declined, the impulsivity improved. The study is limited by the small numbers in the patient sample and the absence of a control group.