 |
|
 |
 |
|
|
||||
|
||||
|
||||
|
||||
|
| Borderline Personality Today | ||||
 |
 |
|||
|
Psychotropic
Medications Free Medications Find a Therapist Volunteers Spiritual Support MH Exercises Award Sign Up Disclaimer Mission Statement Privacy Copyright BPD Links About Contact
|
Q. I have been in a multiyear relationship with a 37 year old woman,
diagnosed with a cluster B personality disorder who primarily
expresses borderline and histrionic traits. Needless to say this has
been difficult, high on the list of problems being the consistent
lying and lack of sexual fidelity (both related). I am at a bit of a
loss on two related issues. Little real-life information seems to be
available.
First, how is this Cluster B expressed compared to typical written discussions on borderline personality disorder behaviors? I am aware that histrionic personality disorder and BPD are often connected, but is this cluster B different from the "norm"? What behavior patterns can I expect from this woman? Second, is a stable, monogamous relationship even conceivable with a person (also very attractive to men) who has this devastating personality disorder pattern. Treatment approaches? A. To answer your question "is this cluster B different from the norm?" Cluster B is not something different from the diagnoses of histrionic personality disorder (HPD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD). HPD and BPD are part of cluster B. Please refer to the DSM for more reading on what a cluster category was used for in this manual. Your last question centered around whether it is "conceivable" to have a stable monogamous relationship with someone with HPD and BPD. Yes, it is conceivable but takes a great deal of work. As you know, relationships are far too complex to predict based on a paragraph's worth of description. You and her need to discuss your relationship and what you both need and want in your relationship. Lying and sexual infidelity appear to be at least two areas that will require discussion. There may be other limits, needs, or boundaries that will need to be established. It may also be necessary to explore your own reasons for why you remain in the relationship as it may give you insights into what you need/want in a relationship. 
Visit MH Matters for information and articles. Get help to find a therapist or list your practice; and Psych Forums for message boards on a variety of MH topics. Sponsors: Aphrodite's Love Poetry ¦ Make Money on the Internet |
 |
 |
|||