Can someone with borderline personality disorder "split" someone temporarily then go back to normal?
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is characterized by unstable moods, relationships, and self-image, often accompanied by intense fear of abandonment. The term "splitting" refers to a defense mechanism where individuals see things in extremes, either all good or all bad, with little room for middle ground. When someone with BPD "splits" another person, they might idealize them, seeing them as perfect and fulfilling all their needs. However, this idealization is often temporary and can shift abruptly to devaluation, where the person is viewed as entirely negative or harmful. During the idealization phase, individuals with BPD may perceive the other person as their savior, showering them with affection and admiration. However, this intense positive view is fragile and can quickly change. A triggering event, real or perceived, may cause a sudden shift to the devaluation phase. In this state, the individual might feel betrayed, abandoned, or disappointed, leading ...