Understanding BPD Splitting: Devaluation vs. Re-Idealization
These relationships are not meant to last. But the point is you need to understand why you confuse love being hurt, whether or not the person with BPD intends that, and that's not a healthy, workable relationship.
Ever wondered why relationships with someone who has Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can feel like an emotional rollercoaster? In this episode of 'Surviving BPD Relationship Breakups', A.J. Mahari unpacks the concept of splitting, a major defense mechanism in BPD relationships. Mahari, a seasoned counselor and trauma recovery coach, breaks down the difference between devaluation and re-idealization, shedding light on why these relationships often feel unstable and challenging. Mahari explains that splitting isn't a simple cycle of idealization turning into devaluation.
Instead, it's more about devaluation leading to a temporary return to a baseline mood. This episode highlights how people with BPD often struggle to see or hear their partners for who they truly are, viewing them instead through the lens of past adverse experiences. The result? Relationships that can feel unhealthy and impossible to sustain. But it doesn't stop there. Mahari also dives into related topics like codependency, the toxic superego, and healing from childhood traumas.
If you've ever felt lost in the ups and downs of a BPD relationship, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the emotional risks involved. Listeners will come away with a better understanding of the complexities of BPD relationships and the importance of maintaining a balanced perspective. Whether you're trying to heal from a past relationship or seeking ways to support someone with BPD, Mahari's compassionate approach provides both knowledge and support.