The Four Divisions of BPD

A first-level distinction along the Borderline continuum
There are four generally accepted divisions within Borderline. It is theorized that the next version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of mental disorders will distinguish the four major categories, similar to how other disorders such as Bi-Polar have been categorized.
  • Low-Functioning, Out-Acting: generally unable to hold a job, pay bills, live unassisted; generally acts inappropriately to others, screams, yells, makes groundless accusations, engages in extreme projection.
  • Low-Functioning, In-Acting: generally unable to hold a job, pay bills, live unassisted; generally directs frustrations inward in the form of self-mutilation, extreme negative self-talk.
  • High-Functioning, Out-Acting: generally able to hold a job, keep things together; generally will "keep their cool" in a public forum like the workplace but will lash out at loved ones or those who "should be able to take it."
  • High-Functioning, In-Acting: generally able to hold a job, keep things together; generally will "keep their cool" in a public forum like the workplace but will lash out him or herself in private over their anger and frustrations unspoken.

No assumptions should be made based on these divisions nor should they be construed as clinical fact. They are simply generalizations widely accepted in the Borderline community and are made available for your review.