The 9 Criteria of Borderline Personality Disorder

Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. The perception of impending separation or rejection can lead to profound changes in self-image, affect, cognition, and behavior.

A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterized by alternating between extremes of idealization and devaluation (splitting).

Identity disturbance: markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self. Goals, values, and vocational aspirations may suddenly shift.

Impulsivity in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating).

Recurrent suicidal behavior, gestures, or threats, or self-mutilating behavior (cutting, burning, etc.), often precipitated by threats of separation or rejection.

Affective instability due to a marked reactivity of mood (e.g., intense episodic dysphoria, irritability, or anxiety usually lasting a few hours and only rarely more than a few days).

Chronic feelings of emptiness. Individuals easily get bored and are constantly seeking something to do.

Inappropriate, intense anger or difficulty controlling anger (e.g., frequent displays of temper, constant anger, recurrent physical fights).

Transient, stress-related paranoid ideation or severe dissociative symptoms (feeling of unreality or detachment from oneself).