Raised by BPD Parent

QUESTION:

Dear Dr. Heller,

Can being raised by a parent with the BPD cause problems?

ANSWER:

Yes, that's part of the reason it's so important for those with the BPD to get treated in every way - physical, mental and spiritual.

The literature has shown that families with parents having the BPD are more unstable and dysfunctional, and place the children at increased risk of psychiatric problems. Three of the biggest problems occur 1) when the BPD parent "splits" (devalues) against the other parent or the child, 2) when the child lives in a hostile environment, and 3) when the household mood is unstable.

I have known many individuals with the BPD who were horrible parents, and many who were sensational. It's not just the BPD, but how the individual handles it. Character and dedication towards mental wellness clearly play a role in defining who will do well as a parent and who will do poorly.

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