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Symptoms Borderline Personality Disorder according to DSM IV

Written by: Martin Winkler
First version: 22 Jul 2008. Latest version: 07 Nov 2016.

Abstract:

Borderline personality disorder can be characterized by instability, impulsivity, recklessness, explosiveness.

Question:

Describe symptoms Borderline Personality Disorder? How do you define Borderline Personality Disorder?

Answer:

A pervasive pattern of instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, and marked impulsivity beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following:

  1. Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment.

  2. A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterized by alternating between extremes of idealization and devaluation.

  3. Identity disturbance: markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self.

  4. Impulsivity in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating).

  5. Recurrent suicidal behaviour, gestures, or threats, or self-mutilating behaviour.

  6. Affective instability due to a marked reactivity of mood (e.g., intense episodic dysphoria, irritability, or anxiety usually lasting a few hours and only rarely more than a few days).

  7. Chronic feelings of emptiness

  8. Inappropriate, intense anger or difficulty controlling anger (e.g., frequent displays of temper, constant anger, recurrent physical fights)

  9. Transient, stress-related paranoid ideation or severe dissociative symptoms

Borderline is sometimes named emotionally instable personality. About 2 % of all people have this personality disorder.
More Information
Definition of a Personality Disorder Rapidly changing emotions Idealization or total rejection Self-harm Black or white thinking How common is Borderline disorders? Suicidal tendencies Personality disorders overview Articles about mood swings Articles about personality disorders Articles about life and relations
Sources, references.
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