I’ve tried researching it and many explanations seem to be emotionally charged, judgmental, and non-factual. “They’re so evil and manipulative!” Okay, but can you actually describe what it is?
The the factual, non-biased explanations show what’s in the DSM-5, but it’s kind of vague. What exactly is it? What might people with BPD do to avoid abandonment? Etc.
Edit: Just wanted to thank everyone for their reply. Everyone has brought something of value and an interesting perspective.
In: Other
The word “borderline” means the border between psychosis and neurosis.
The NIMH definition is accurate, but doesn’t ELI5 as you’re requesting. Based on the book I link to below, and I can tell you also from my first hand experience, that BPD has roots in feeling worthless. Behavior which can be seen as damaging or uncomfortable or abusive, can also be explained as someone with BPD having an overwhelming need to be perceived as having worth. It’s not just being “evil” or “manipulative”, there’s a reason WHY the behavior occurs. The mindset is closer to: “You’re wrong, you aren’t hurt by me. I can’t have hurt you, because if I did then I was wrong, and if I was wrong you won’t love me, and if you don’t love me I’m worthless and will be abandoned. So I didn’t hurt you, you are not hurt, because I can’t be revealed to be worthless.” Something like that.
I STRONGLY recommend you read the book [“Stop Walking On Eggshells”](https://www.amazon.com/Stop-Walking-Eggshells-Borderline-Personality/dp/1572246901), which describes BPD through the lens of the family and friends of those who suffer from it. It makes it much easier to identify, and to understand the difference between “high functioning” and “low functioning” BPD.
Also, it’s worth noting that BPD is often diagnosed alongside narcissistic personality disorder, they amplify each other in some ways.
I hope this helps.
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