What behavior is associated with Borderline Personality Disorder?

Patients with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often exhibit impulsivity in relationships, which is a hallmark characteristic of the disorder. This impulsivity can manifest as intense and unstable interpersonal relationships, where individuals may alternate between idealizing and devaluing their partners. They may fear abandonment and thus engage in impulsive behaviors to avoid perceived rejection, often leading to tumultuous relationships.

The impulsive nature can also reflect in a variety of other aspects of life, such as spending, substance use, or self-harming behaviors, underscoring the instability that is frequently observed in individuals with BPD. This tendency to act impulsively contributes to their emotional dysregulation and can complicate their interactions with others, further exacerbating relationship issues.

In contrast, other behaviors mentioned in the options do not align with the typical presentation of BPD. A grandiose sense of self is more commonly associated with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, while a stable self-image contradicts the fundamental instability found in BPD. The need for excessive admiration is another characteristic tied to Narcissistic Personality Disorder, indicating a different focus on self-perception rather than the relational and emotional volatility that defines BPD.