Perception of Self in Borderline States
Abstract
The borderline state may be better described in terms of defective ego functioning than as a clearly delineated symptom cluster. The concepts of "ego boundary" and "sense of identity" are used here to emphasize one area of defective ego functioning—pathology in the perception of self—and to demonstrate its importance in behavioral patterns associated with the borderline state. Therapy should be focused upon clarification of the patient's distortions in self-perception by strengthening his sense of separateness, individuality, and historical continuity and by helping him to form a clearer picture of the meaningful people in his life.
Access content
To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.- Personal login
- Institutional Login
- Sign in via OpenAthens
- Register for access
-
Please login/register if you wish to pair your device and check access availability.
Not a subscriber?
PsychiatryOnline subscription options offer access to the DSM-5 library, books, journals, CME, and patient resources. This all-in-one virtual library provides psychiatrists and mental health professionals with key resources for diagnosis, treatment, research, and professional development.
Need more help? PsychiatryOnline Customer Service may be reached by emailing [email protected] or by calling 800-368-5777 (in the U.S.) or 703-907-7322 (outside the U.S.).
