The statement that people with borderline personality disorder (BPD) have no core personality and tend to adopt the personality of someone they are with is not entirely accurate and may perpetuate misconceptions about the disorder. It is essential to approach this topic with nuance and avoid generalizations about individuals with BPD.
BPD is a complex and multifaceted mental health condition characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability in emotions, relationships, and self-image. While individuals with BPD may struggle with a fragmented or unstable sense of self, it is not accurate to say that they have no core personality.
The unstable sense of self in BPD can lead to identity disturbances, where individuals may struggle to have a consistent and stable understanding of their values, interests, and goals. This may make them more susceptible to adopting traits or characteristics of those they are close to, especially during periods of intense attachment or fear of abandonment.
Here are a few reasons why this phenomenon might occur:
Identity Disturbances: As mentioned earlier, BPD can lead to an unstable sense of self, which can make individuals feel uncertain about who they are. In an effort to establish a stable identity, they might be influenced by the personalities of others, leading to perceived shifts in their own behavior.
Emotional Intensity and Impressionability: People with BPD often experience emotions intensely and may be highly empathetic. Their heightened emotional sensitivity can make them more receptive to others' emotions and perspectives, leading to adaptive behaviors that mirror the people they are with.
Fear of Abandonment: Individuals with BPD may engage in people-pleasing behaviors or adopt the traits of others as a way to avoid rejection or abandonment. By conforming to the preferences of those they are close to, they may hope to maintain those relationships.
Chameleon-Like Adaptation: Some individuals with BPD might adapt their behaviors to fit into social situations or relationships, similar to what is commonly seen in people who are generally flexible or socially adept. However, in BPD, this adaptation may be more pronounced due to underlying emotional dysregulation.
It's essential to recognize that even though individuals with BPD might exhibit adaptive behavior or temporarily adopt aspects of others' personalities, they still have their own unique core personality. The lack of a stable sense of self is a symptom of the disorder rather than an absence of a personality altogether.
As with any mental health condition, it is crucial to avoid generalizations and stereotypes and approach each individual with empathy, understanding, and support. People with BPD can benefit from appropriate therapy, such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which can help them develop a more stable sense of self, regulate their emotions, and improve their interpersonal relationships.