Personality and Mood Disorders Q 30
Which of the following statements is expected from a client with borderline personality disorder with a history of dysfunctional relationships?
A. “I won’t get involved in another relationship.”
B. “I’m determined to look for the perfect partner.”
C. “I’ve decided to use better communication skills.”
D. “I’m going to be an equal partner in a relationship.”
Correct Answer: B. “I’m determined to look for the perfect partner.”
Clients with borderline personality disorder would decide to look for a perfect partner. This characteristic is a result of the dichotomous manner in which these clients view the world. They go from relationship to relationship without taking responsibility for their behavior. BPD can often interfere with the ability to enjoy life or achieve fulfillment in relationships, work, or school. It’s associated with specific and significant problems in interpersonal relationships, self-image, emotions, behaviors, and thinking.
Option A: It’s unlikely that an unsuccessful relationship will cause clients to make a change. They tend to be demanding and impulsive in relationships. People with BPD tend to have intense relationships with loved ones characterized by frequent conflicts, arguments, and break-ups. BPD is associated with an intense fear of being abandoned by loved ones and attempts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. This usually leads to difficulty trusting others, putting a strain on relationships.
Option C: There’s no thought given to what one wants or needs from a relationship. Because they tend to blame others for problems, it’s unlikely they would express a desire to learn communication skills. Individuals with BPD have difficulties related to the stability of their sense of self. They report many ups and downs in how they feel about themselves. One moment they may feel good about themselves, but the next they may feel they are bad or even evil.
Option D: Emotional instability is a key feature of BPD. Individuals feel like they’re on an emotional roller coaster with quick mood shifts (i.e., going from feeling OK to feeling extremely down or blue within a few minutes). Mood changes can last from minutes to days and are often intense. Anger, anxiety, and overwhelming emptiness are common as well.