Table of Contents
What is devaluation and idealization in BPD?
Devaluation and idealization are defense mechanisms that help a person manage their anxiety as well as internal or external stresses. While this subconscious protection system can be found in a few personality disorders, it is most often associated with borderline personality disorder (BPD). 1 What Is Idealization?
Why do women with traits of BPD devalue their romantic partners?
In Part One of this blog series, Romantic Devaluation and Idealization In Women With Traits of BPD we explored the reasons why so many women on the spectrum of BPD devalue their romantic partners once the initial honeymoon phase comes to an end. We identified devaluation as the inevitable result of a woman who idealizes her romantic partner.
What is an example of devaluation in borderline personality disorder?
In borderline personality disorder, devaluation often alternates with idealization. For instance, a person with BPD may shift from great admiration for a loved one — idealization of that person — to an intense anger or dislike towards that person — devaluation of that person.
What happens when you break up with someone with BPD?
Ending a BPD Relationship. Many issues may arise when a BPD relationship is ending. Because people with BPD have an intense fear of abandonment, a breakup can leave them feeling absolutely desperate and devastated. Even if a relationship is unhealthy, a person with BPD can often have trouble letting the relationship go.
Why do people with BPD fear abandonment so much?
People with BPD both fear abandonment and have symptoms that create conflict with others and often lead to abandonment, which then reinforces the fear. In addition, people with BPD are likely particularly attuned to the experience of being abandoned.
How does borderline personality disorder (BPD) affect relationships?
It also creates a drive to go to great lengths to try to avoid abandonment, and feelings of devastation when someone ends a relationship. As a result, the fear of being abandoned often causes people with BPD to form unhealthy attachments, cut off loved ones, and make frantic attempts to hold onto relationships.