OBJECTIVE: Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an empirically supported 
treatment for outpatients with borderline personality disorder. However, the 
utility of DBT strategies for inpatients with the disorder is unclear. This 
review summarizes and synthesizes findings from trials of DBT in inpatient 
settings.
METHODS: Multiple research databases were searched for articles published 
through June 2011 that reported on any implementation of DBT in an inpatient 
setting to address symptoms related to borderline personality disorder, 
including suicidal and self-injurious behavior.
RESULTS: Eleven studies that reported pre- and posttreatment symptoms related to 
borderline personality disorder were evaluated. Studies indicated that many 
variations of standard DBT have been used in inpatient settings, including 
approaches that do not include phone consultation, that include group therapy 
only, and that vary in treatment duration (from two weeks to three months). Most 
studies reported reductions in suicidal ideation, self-injurious behaviors, and 
symptoms of depression and anxiety, whereas results for reducing anger and 
violent behaviors were mixed. Follow-up data indicated that symptom reduction 
was often maintained between one and 21 months posttreatment. On the basis of 
the evidence, the authors identify essential components of an inpatient DBT 
package and discuss its potential function as an "intensive orientation" to 
outpatient DBT services.
CONCLUSIONS: There is considerable variation in the configuration and duration 
of DBT implementation for inpatients with borderline personality disorder. 
However, findings suggest that DBT may be effective in reducing symptoms related 
to borderline personality disorder in inpatient settings. Future research should 
standardize and systematically test inpatient DBT. (Psychiatric Services 
63:881-888, 2012; doi: 10.1176/appi.ps.201100311).