Splitting is a defense mechanism and a common behavior observed in individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). It refers to the tendency to perceive things, people, or situations in an all-or-nothing, black-and-white manner, without any shades of gray. Essentially, it is a polarized view of the world, where objects, individuals, or events are categorized as either entirely good or entirely bad, with little room for ambiguity or complexity.
Here's how splitting manifests in BPD:
Idealization: During the idealization phase, individuals with BPD might perceive someone or something as perfect, flawless, and wonderful. They place people on a pedestal, believing that they can do no wrong. Relationships or situations in this phase are often intense and exciting.
Devaluation: In the devaluation phase, the same person or situation is now seen as entirely negative, disappointing, or even evil. This shift can be triggered by a real or perceived slight, criticism, or any behavior that the person with BPD interprets as rejection or abandonment. During this phase, the individual may become angry, hostile, or emotionally distant from the person or situation they once idealized.
Rapid Shifts: The transition between idealization and devaluation can happen quickly and unpredictably, often leaving others around them confused and hurt by the sudden change in perception and behavior.
Self-Splitting: Splitting not only applies to how individuals with BPD view others or situations but also to how they perceive themselves. They might have an unstable self-image, oscillating between seeing themselves as wonderful or as fundamentally flawed and unworthy.
Splitting is a coping mechanism that individuals with BPD employ to manage their intense emotions and the fear of rejection or abandonment. It can be exhausting for both the person with BPD and those around them, as relationships become unpredictable and emotionally charged. Splitting can interfere with forming stable and healthy relationships and may contribute to the interpersonal difficulties often associated with borderline personality disorder.
It's important to note that splitting is a behavior observed in individuals with BPD, but it is not exclusive to this disorder. Other mental health conditions and stressful life events can also lead individuals to engage in splitting behaviors. Treatment for BPD often involves therapies such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) that can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and emotional regulation skills, which can lead to more stable and balanced perceptions of themselves and others.