What is the DSM-IV Definition of BPD?
Note: DSM = Diagnostic And Statistical Manual of the American Psychiatric Association; the “psychiatrist’s bible” that lists all “recognized” mental illnesses and conditions. 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: • Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. Note: Do not include suicidal or self-mutilating behavior covered in (5). • A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterized by alternating between extremes of idealization and devaluation. This is called “splitting.” • Identity disturbance: markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self. • Impulsivity in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating). Note: Do not include suicidal or self-mutilating behavior cov
