BPD splitting leads to exaggerated and polarized views of what is positive or negative.
This tends to disrupt relationships as well as one’s own sense of self.
It is a disorder, not a personality trait.
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Splitting can involve a rapid change in how you see a person or situation.
Definition
Splitting is a symptom ofborderline personality disorder (BPD).
It is a distinct and disruptive disorder that severely affects a persons ability to regulate their emotions.
Instead, children may simply categorize things as being either bad or good.
Splitting is a defense mechanism that helps children to cope better.
Splitting can also occur in people living with NPD.
BPD triggers can be different for everyone.
A relationship with someone living with BPD tends to be intense but unstable.
The other partner may feel mistrust because of the instability.
A 2022 study noted that splitting and other symptoms of BPD can have devastating effects on a relationship.
Constant splitting can result in the person with BPD increasingly obsessing over the partners commitment to the relationship.
Desperate attempts to keep a partner in ones life can eventually drive the partner away.
How Long Do BPD Relationships Last?
Treatment
There is no specific treatment for BPD splitting.
Splitting is addressed as part of a treatment plan for BPD that involves psychotherapy and sometimes medication.
In severe cases, inpatient treatment for care under a psychiatrist is needed.
If they pose a genuine risk of harm to you or others, call 9-1-1.
Treatment is part of overall care for BPD and usually involves psychotherapy and sometimes medications.
It also may focus on healthy relationships.
Gagnon J, Quansah JE, Saleh G, Levin C.Is Splitting Related to Resistance to Proactive Interference?
A Process-Oriented Study of Kernberg’s Conceptualization of Splitting.Psychopathology.
2022;55(6):345-361. doi:10.1159/000525006
The Wellness Society.How to deal with splitting behavior.
2024 Nov 22;24(1):842. doi:10.1186/s12888-024-06307-9
Chelsea BPD Psychology Clinic.What Is Splitting?
California Prime Recovery.Understanding BPD Splitting.
A Case Series.J Nerv Ment Dis.
2024 Jul 1;212(7):392-397. doi:10.1097/NMD.0000000000001777
National Alliance on Mental Illness.Borderline Personality Disorder.
2021 Oct;35(10):1053-1067. doi:10.1007/s40263-021-00855-4
