Understanding the Triggers of Emotional Lashing Out in Borderline Personality Disorder

Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often exhibit intense and impulsive behaviors that can lead to significant emotional lashing out. These reactions can be confusing and difficult to understand for both the person experiencing them and those around them. This article delves into the root causes of these outbursts and whether those with BPD can control their actions.

The Role of Emotional Regulation in BPD

The emotional dysregulation characteristic of BPD is a central factor in these behaviors. Research has shown that individuals with BPD have a reduced capacity for emotional regulation, particularly in key brain regions like the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and grey matter. These areas play a crucial role in managing emotions, and their diminished size and function can lead to heightened emotional experiences that are difficult to manage.

Why Feelings Are Facts to a Borderline

One of the most striking aspects of BPD is the intense subjective experience of emotion. Individuals with BPD often report feeling emotions so intensely that they believe their feelings are an objective reality, regardless of external evidence or contrary facts. This phenomenon is often referred to as the statement, "feelings are facts to a borderline." This intense emotional perspective can lead to significant misinterpretations of events and relationships, contributing to the emotional lashing out seen in BPD.

As illustrated in a recent discussion, a person with BPD might claim to have been raped or nearly murdered by an ex-partner. Upon closer examination, any alleged "murder attempt" typically turns out to be less severe, such as heated arguments or physical altercations, perceived by the individual as far worse due to their emotional state. This discrepancy underscores the importance of understanding BPD from an emotional regulation perspective rather than a literal one.

Creating BPD: Early Childhood Trauma

The prevalence of early childhood trauma in individuals with BPD is well-documented. Trauma can cause emotional arrest at a very young age, leading to behaviors and reactions similar to those of tantrum-throwing children. This trauma often results from a lack of appropriate emotional support, leading to extreme dependency on others for emotional regulation. In such cases, individuals with BPD may make impulsive and negligent decisions based on emotional needs and incorrect assumptions, which further exacerbate their difficulties in controlling their behaviors.

Impact on Relationships and Self-Awareness

As individuals with BPD become more self-aware, they often realize the severity of their condition but may still pursue relationships as a desperate attempt to find emotional stability. This reliance on others for emotional regulation can be dangerous and lead to further emotional and psychological harm. It is crucial for people with BPD to recognize that prioritizing desires and well-being over the health and safety of others is a form of narcissistic abuse. With this awareness, they have two options: engaging in targeted therapy or choosing to remain single to avoid such abusive situations.

Conclusion

Emotional lashing out in individuals with BPD is a complex issue rooted in emotional dysregulation and early childhood trauma. Understanding and addressing these underlying factors is essential for effective management of the disorder. It is important to frame the condition through a holistic perspective, recognizing the interplay between body, mind, and soul, and to advocate for treatments that can help individuals with BPD regain control over their emotions and behaviors.