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Borderline Personality Disorder Essay

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Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental disorder that results in a pervasive pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, emotions, and personal (self) image. Those with BPD are often very impulsive, often with a disregard for safety or consequences of the behavior. These behaviors are often self injurious in nature, including suicide attempts, self-mutilation (cutting or burning), or even risky sexual behaviors. Consider the Mad Hatter displayed in the clip of Alice in Wonderland. The Mad Hatter jumps back and forth between helping Alice and hating her existence without regard for his own safety. In addition to the risky behaviour the Mad Hatter displays other symptoms of BPD. He has a poor, or in the least erratic, self-image, …show more content…

This disorder occurs most often in early adulthood following a period of unstable interactions with others. This often stems from self-image issues and faulty early social interactions. The awkwardness is at an extreme level and shown in a variety of different settings over time. Most people will first notice the rapid fluctuation of emotions during interactions. To be diagnosed with a personality disorder one must have an enduring pattern of inner experience that deviates from the cultural norm in at least two of the following areas: affect, cognition, interpersonal functioning, and/or impulse …show more content…

Long term psychotherapy is the most useful approach. As the Mad Hatter video explained DBT or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, is the top form of therapy for treating BPD. DBT is a modified form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that includes validation and dialectics. This therapy offers a form of ‘tough love’ for patients that offers unconditional acceptance with a push toward understanding that many of the behaviors are irrational. Medications, typically low doses of antipsychotics, are sometimes used in conjunction with therapy. Social groups and support groups may be useful for those suffering from similar

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