They compete for social acceptance, are terrified of rejection and often feel lonely even in the context of an intimate relationship.
People with borderline personality disorder have a deep fear of abandonment. For example, they may assume a friend or family member is having extremely hateful feelings toward them, when the person may be only mildly annoyed or angry. Especially in close relationships, they tend to misinterpret or amplify what other people feel about them. They experience a distortion of their perceptions or beliefs rather than a distinct break with reality. When stressed, people with borderline personality disorder may develop psychotic-like symptoms. Sometimes, without intending to commit suicide, they harm themselves (for example, cutting or burning) as a form of self-punishment or to combat an empty feeling. They are also more likely than average to attempt or commit suicide.
People with this disorder have highly reactive and intense moods, and unstable relationships. Borderline personality disorder is characterized by poor self-image, a feeling of emptiness, and great difficulty coping with being alone.
