I can provide you with some general information about borderline personality disorder (BPD) and the trait of "changing history," also known as "revisionist history."
In individuals with borderline personality disorder, the trait of "changing history" can manifest as a tendency to reinterpret past events, emotions, or interactions in a way that fits their current emotional state or narrative. They might remember past events inaccurately, perceive others' intentions differently, or deny previous statements or actions. This behavior can stem from their intense emotions, fear of abandonment, difficulty regulating emotions, and challenges with identity and self-esteem.
Examples of "changing history" behavior in someone with BPD may include:
Splitting: People with BPD often experience "splitting," where they view others as either all good or all bad. When they are in a positive emotional state, they may idealize someone, praising their virtues and remembering only positive interactions. However, when their emotions shift to a negative state, they might suddenly demonize the same person, focusing solely on perceived faults and remembering only negative interactions.
Denial of Past Statements or Actions: When confronted with past statements or actions that they find distressing or embarrassing, a person with BPD may deny having said or done those things, even if there is clear evidence of it. They might genuinely believe their revised version of events due to the emotional intensity of the moment.
Emotional Reasoning: People with BPD often heavily rely on their emotions to interpret reality. For example, if they are feeling rejected or abandoned, they might interpret a neutral comment from a friend as a sign of hostility or indifference.
Distorted Memory: Emotional intensity can interfere with memory recall. When experiencing strong emotions, individuals with BPD may remember events differently than they occurred, attributing motives and emotions to others that may not be accurate.
Idealization and Devaluation: In romantic relationships or close friendships, individuals with BPD may alternate between intense idealization and devaluation of their partner or friend. During the idealization phase, they may remember only positive aspects of the relationship, while during devaluation, they may focus on negative aspects and overlook positive memories.
It's important to note that "changing history" behavior is not exclusive to people with BPD, and it can be observed in various individuals, depending on their emotional state and coping mechanisms. BPD is a complex and challenging mental health condition that requires professional diagnosis and treatment by mental health experts. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of BPD or any mental health concern, it's essential to seek professional help and support.