Which personality disorder is marked by intense fear of abandonment and unstable interpersonal relationships?

Which personality disorder is marked by intense fear of abandonment and unstable interpersonal relationships?

• A. Borderline personality disorder
• B. Histrionic personality disorder
• C. Dependent personality disorder
• D. Avoidant personality disorder

Answer: (A)

This item tests recognizing borderline personality disorder, which is defined by a pattern of unstable relationships, identity, and emotions, with a pronounced fear of abandonment. This fear often leads to intense, stormy interactions where relationships swing quickly between idealization and devaluation, and mood shifts can be rapid. That combination of frantic fear of being left and highly unstable relationships is the hallmark clue. Histrionic personality disorder, in contrast, centers on excessive emotionality and a continual need for attention. Dependent personality disorder involves an pervasive reliance on others and submissive, clingy behavior. Avoidant personality disorder features social inhibition and hypersensitivity to rejection, leading to avoidance of social situations.

This item tests recognizing borderline personality disorder, which is defined by a pattern of unstable relationships, identity, and emotions, with a pronounced fear of abandonment. This fear often leads to intense, stormy interactions where relationships swing quickly between idealization and devaluation, and mood shifts can be rapid. That combination of frantic fear of being left and highly unstable relationships is the hallmark clue.

Histrionic personality disorder, in contrast, centers on excessive emotionality and a continual need for attention. Dependent personality disorder involves an pervasive reliance on others and submissive, clingy behavior. Avoidant personality disorder features social inhibition and hypersensitivity to rejection, leading to avoidance of social situations.