| Summary: | Overall, this thesis focuses on the presence of psychotic experiences (PE) outside of traditional psychotic disorder boundaries, particularly in individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Special emphasis is placed on the potential role of childhood adversity. Part one presents a systematic literature review on the lifetime prevalence of hearing voices within the adult general population using clearer and more conservative criteria compared to previous reviews. The findings indicated that a significant minority of the general population hear voices. Prevalence varied according to sample characteristics and methodological factors, most notably the definition and measurement of voice hearing. Recommendations for future research and clinical practice are discussed. Part two presents an original empirical paper exploring the role of childhood adversity in the development of PE in BPD. The results indicated that particular characteristics of adversity, namely cumulative exposure to sexual abuse throughout childhood, may be helpful in understanding susceptibility to PE in BPD. More frequent adversity was also important in a general population control sample, where paternal neglect appeared to be more influential. A number of methodological limitations were identified, which are discussed alongside research and clinical implications. Part three provides a critical appraisal of the research process and how this may inform future research. The impact of using internet-mediated methodology is discussed, alongside specific reflections on the research process and the ongoing difficulties associated with understanding and supporting individuals with both PE and BPD.
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