Dialectical behaviour therapy for men and boys: a systematic review

Abstract

Background: dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) is a popular treatment that targets emotional dysregulation, a key feature associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The majority of available literature exploring the effectiveness of DBT is based on research concerning female samples. Therefore, the application and efficacy of DBT as a treatment intervention for men and boys remains unclear. 

Methods: multiple research databases were searched using a systematic review process for articles that reported on the use of DBT with male samples across any outcome measure and included pre- and post-treatment symptom scores.

Results: nineteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies indicated that the application of DBT to male samples varies. Vast differences were found in treatment length, use of DBT modes and population settings. Most studies identified some benefits of DBT; however, the sample sizes were small and there was large heterogeneity across the studies. 

Conclusions: there is preliminary evidence supporting the use of DBT for males, specifically targeting anger and violence as well as emotional dysregulation and suicidality. Despite this, the limitations and heterogeneity from the current studies preclude the current review from drawing any definitive conclusions about the overall efficacy of the treatment in this population.

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