Splitting is a term used to describe a mechanism utilized by individuals with borderline personality disorder in their relationships. It means identifying themselves or other people as either completely good or completely bad. This damages their interpersonal relationships. 

State University of New York at Albany

The DSM-IV criteria for borderline personality disorder describe their interpersonal relationship styles as intense and unstable. The relational style for individuals with BPD emphasizes the “preoccupied” attachment style (clingy behavior; insecurity; seeking attention) and the “fearful” attachment style (denial, fear, confusion).

Intense and Unstable Relationships in BPD

Whitbourne, S. K. (2023). Abnormal psychology: Clinical perspective on psychological disorder. (10th ed.). McGraw Hill.

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