Borderline pattern

Description

The Borderline pattern specifier may be applied to individuals whose pattern of personality disturbance is characterised by a pervasive pattern of instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affects, and marked impulsivity, as indicated by many of the following: Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment; A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships; Identity disturbance, manifested in markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self; A tendency to act rashly in states of high negative affect, leading to potentially self-damaging behaviours; Recurrent episodes of self-harm; Emotional instability due to marked reactivity of mood; Chronic feelings of emptiness; Inappropriate intense anger or difficulty controlling anger; Transient dissociative symptoms or psychotic-like features in situations of high affective arousal.

Coding note

This category should ONLY be used in combination with a Personality disorder category (Mild, Moderate, or Severe) or Personality difficulty.

Coding note from above levels

The following categories should ONLY be used in combination with a Personality disorder category (Mild, Moderate, or Severe) or Personality difficulty.

Exclusions from above levels

• QE62 – Uncomplicated bereavement
• QE84 – Acute stress reaction