Understanding BPD and Emotional Reactivity: When Perceived Rejection Sparks Anger and Harm

It is difficult to fathom the reality that behind the anger and vindictive actions lies a complex psychological affliction. For individuals with BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), feeling rejected can trigger a range of intense reactions, not all of which are immediately apparent.

Common Reactions to Rejection in BPD Individuals

When a BPD individual feels that they have been rejected or ignored, the reaction may vary widely, from angry outbursts and abuse to self-harm through drug or alcohol use. It is a stark reality that the actions and feelings of a BPD individual are constantly on edge and can spiral out of control.

Emotional Outbursts and Abuse

Their emotions can be so intense that they may engage in abusive behavior, either verbally or physically. They might break and destroy property, and in severe cases, lead to self-harm and even anger issues that could spiral into violent behavior, including physical altercations. These behaviours are not always immediate or obvious, but can occur in the aftermath of a perceived rejection, even long after the initial trigger.

Financial and Personal Consequences

The consequences can be dire. Financial ruin, abandonment of a family unit, unplanned pregnancies, or moving in with another person immediately can be a result of these intense emotional reactions. These situations can rapidly deteriorate and the BPD individual may face emergencies that require intervention from law enforcement. In many instances, these consequences are premeditated, but due to the intense emotional state, they may occur without thought or planning.

Comparing NPD and BPD: Emotional Reactions at Their Worst

While it is true that individuals with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) may also exhibit controlling and manipulative behavior, the extreme emotional reactions seen in BPD tend to override other personality traits.

High Emotional Reactivity in BPD

When a highly emotional person undergoes a break-up, their emotional reactivity may be considered an extreme disorder. Individuals with BPD experience this heightened reactivity as the normal state of their functioning. In contrast, a person with disorders like Social Anxiety Disorder or Avoidant Personality Disorder (APD) might experience similar reactions, but they are not as intense and disruptive as those seen in BPD.

Examples of Extreme Emotional Reactions

For instance, the scene from the play 'Angels in America' where a character named Roy Cohn, is so emotionally wrought that he ‘strangles himself with the phone cord’ upon a perceived slight, is a vivid illustration of the types of panic and despair that someone with BPD might experience. This level of emotional distress is characteristic of the disorder and often seen in cases where BPD individuals feel deeply rejected.

Conclusion

Understanding the emotional reactivity and reactions of BPD individuals is crucial for those around them, whether they are family members, friends, or partners. Empathy and support can go a long way in helping to navigate these challenging times. Further, recognizing the signs and seeking professional help can significantly mitigate some of the more severe consequences.

Related Keywords

BPD Emotional Reactivity Perceived Rejection