All or Nothing: Dichotomous Thinking
Written by: Martin Winkler
First version: 22 Jul 2008.
Latest revision:
31 Jul 2008.
Abstract:
Dichothomous thinking is a tendency to only see extremes such as good or bad, black or white, all or nothing. It is a common symptom of borderline personality disorder.
Question:
How do you describe dichotomous thinking of Borderline Personality Disorder?
Answer:
Patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) tend to perceive and evaluate every thought or situation as
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black or white
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good or bad
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all or nothing
This dysfunctional extreme thinking can be one source of extreme actions like leaving a partnership, quitting a job or other impulsive actions. This can be the main source of extreme reactions, mood swings and interpersonal problems.
To change this dichotomous thinking a psychotherapist will point out examples of daily life to the patient and try to discuss different point of views in terms of a continuum. So the client learns a more realistic perception of his environment and personal relationships.
More Information about Borderline and Related Disorders
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