Encyclopedia of Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder is a mental disorder characterized by emotional instability, interpersonal conflicts, and impulsive behavior, mainly manifested as self-identity confusion, fear of abandonment, self harming behavior, intense emotional fluctuations, and interpersonal tension. Borderline personality disorder may be related to childhood trauma, genetic factors, brain dysfunction, family environment, and social psychological factors.

1. Emotional instability

Borderline personality disorder patients often exhibit extreme emotional fluctuations, which may quickly transition from extreme pleasure to extreme anger or depression. This emotional instability is often triggered by small events and has a short duration but high intensity. Patients may have difficulty controlling their emotional reactions and are prone to impulsive behavior due to emotional instability.

2. Interpersonal Relationship Conflict

Patients often hold extreme views on interpersonal relationships that are either black or white, and may quickly switch between idealizing and belittling others. They are extremely afraid of being abandoned and may resort to extreme measures to avoid imagined or real separation. This interpersonal relationship pattern often leads to frequent conflicts and relationship breakdowns.

3. Self identification confusion

Borderline personality disorder patients often exhibit significant and persistent unstable self-image and self perception. They may frequently change their goals, values, and career plans, lacking consistency in their understanding of themselves. The instability of this self-identity may lead to a lack of long-term direction and purpose.

4. Impulsive Behavior

Patients often exhibit various impulsive behaviors, including substance abuse, overeating, dangerous driving, overconsumption, or self harm. These behaviors usually occur during emotional crises, with the aim of relieving inner pain or expressing unspoken emotions. Impulsive behavior may have a serious negative impact on the patient's life.

5. Self harm and suicidal tendencies

Self harm behavior is more common in patients with borderline personality disorder, including cuts, burns, or other forms of self harm. Some patients may exhibit repeated suicide threats or attempts. These behaviors are often not aimed at ending life, but rather at expressing pain or influencing others. For patients with borderline personality disorder, it is recommended to undergo long-term psychological treatment under the guidance of a professional psychotherapist, such as dialectical behavior therapy or psychodynamic therapy. At the same time, establishing a regular daily routine, maintaining moderate exercise, cultivating healthy ways to cope with stress, and avoiding alcohol and drug abuse can all help improve symptoms. Family and friends should provide patients with full understanding and support, but also pay attention to setting appropriate interpersonal boundaries to avoid being overly influenced by the patient's emotional fluctuations. If serious self harm or suicidal tendencies occur, professional medical assistance should be sought in a timely manner.