Social Work Examination Services (SWES) Human Behavior Practice Test

In the context of borderline personality disorder, what psychological concept does the client's shifting perception of her therapist represent?

1. Projection

2. Splitting

3. Transference

4. Countertransference

The correct answer is: Splitting

The shifting perception of the therapist in the context of borderline personality disorder illustrates the concept of splitting. This psychological phenomenon involves an inability to integrate positive and negative aspects of oneself or others, leading to a polarized view. Individuals with borderline personality disorder often oscillate between idealizing and devaluing others, including their therapists. One moment, the therapist may be seen as a perfect figure, and the next, as someone untrustworthy or harmful. This dichotomy reflects the core difficulty in maintaining stable relationships that is characteristic of this disorder. Splitting serves as a defense mechanism against emotional pain and confusion, simplifying complex feelings into black-and-white thinking. In therapy, these drastic shifts can complicate the therapeutic relationship and underscore the emotional instability that individuals with borderline personality disorder often experience. Understanding this behavior is crucial for practitioners, as it requires sensitivity and consistency in their responses to help stabilize the client's perception and manage the emotional dysregulation associated with the disorder.