" What are you doing?" Angela snaps, while looking at the microwave incredulously.

Her mother, Robin feels the tension. She tries to answer without a tone that would stir provocation. "Heating two bowls of vegetables."

"Four minutes!" Shouts Angela, I only heat them for 30 seconds." Although Angela did not say it, her body language was clearly indicating that her mother should change the time on the microwave.

Robin tries to diffuse the situation by saying with a slight giggle, "Well, I guess we'll have sizzling vegetables!"

Angela retorts, "You're making fun of me! You always make fun of me! Why can't I have a normal conversation with you?"

Robin continues working, and keeps silent. She knows it doesn't matter what she says, or doesn't say, the result will be the same. Surprisingly, the situation seemed to be over, because Angela wasn't raging, or crying.

In a few minutes, her mother, said, "While we are waiting for the vegetables, why don't you get the drinks for the kids?"

" Angela yelled, "I'm not stupid. I am an adult! I can't believe you would tell me to do that! You always treat me like a child. I expect respect. I never ask you to do anything unless it's a favor."

Robin just wanted a peaceful meal for the children, so she continued putting the food on the table.

Angela continues, "you are like talking to a wall. I hate your macaroni and cheese. If you didn't behave like you always do, I wouldn't have all the problems I have in my life. You b-! I hate you!"

She continues her rage, and runs upstairs. The oldest child, the six year old is talking calmly, and telling Robin how much he loves the macaroni and cheese.

SYMPTOMS OF BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER from the above example are:

Trouble observing others' personal limits

Frightening, unpredictable rages that make no logical sense

Create crisis

Verbally abuse, to the point of being brutal

Striving for negative attention

Manipulative

Show these behaviors only to people they are very close to, and are extremely
charming to others

More about Borderline Personality Disorder:

BPD Central: http://www.BPDCentral.com

Stop Walking on Eggshells: by Paul Mason, M.S. and Randi Kreger

Learn more about this author, Kathleen Couch.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

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