When someone with borderline personality disorder (BPD) experiences a "split" in their relationships, it means they undergo a sudden shift in their perception of the other person, often from extreme admiration and attachment (the "favorite person") to feelings of intense anger, disappointment, or rejection. This emotional phenomenon is known as "splitting."
During a split, individuals with BPD may have intense and overwhelming emotions towards the person they previously idealized as their favorite person. The emotional intensity can lead to thoughts and preoccupations about that individual, even after the relationship has ended. These thoughts may include memories of positive experiences, longing for the past, or attempts to understand what led to the split.
It's important to understand that each person with BPD is unique, and their experiences can vary widely. While some individuals may continue to think about their favorite person after a split, others may try to avoid thinking about them to cope with the intense emotions. The way people with BPD handle these situations depends on various factors, including their emotional regulation skills, coping mechanisms, and the support they receive from therapy or other resources.
If you or someone you know is dealing with a split or the aftermath of a relationship with someone who has BPD, seeking professional support from mental health experts can be helpful in processing emotions and developing healthy coping strategies.