This study investigated the construct validity of several recently devised self-report measures of splitting and related primitive defense mechanisms and undertook a preliminary quantitative analysis of the relation of these defenses to here-and-now social perceptions in borderline psychopathology. Based on an integrated framework of object-relations theory, psychoanalytic group psychology, and social cognition theory, the study explored associations between the use of primitive defenses by borderline inpatients and their perceptions of the various staff roles that constitute their treatment teams (e.g., individual psychotherapist and ward chief).

Multivariate statistical analyses revealed that the reliance on image-distorting defenses and the holding of fragmented images of self as omnipotent and as “bad” were significantly associated with borderlines’ perceived proximity to specific members and subgroups of their treatment teams. The findings further validate selected measures of primitive defenses and suggest that such defenses serve a variety of self needs.