Using the Personality Assessment Inventory to Discriminate among Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

This study explored the use of the PAI as a tool to help differentiate borderline personality disorder from two other similar and frequently comorbid disorders of bipolar disorder (I & II) and posttraumatic stress disorder. Using discriminant analysis, the PAI profile scale scores of college counseling center clients that had been given one of these three diagnoses were analyzed. The analysis was able to predict group assignment accurately using four particular scores. A discussion of the predictor variables and clinical presentation of these disorders is offered. Support for the use of the PAI as a routine screening tool in college counseling centers also is suggested.