Paradox as symptom in the borderline patient's struggle for self-differentiation.
OBJECTIVE
Paradox as symptom in patients diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD).


OBJECTIVE
To conceptualize the nature of difficulties arising in psychotherapy with patients diagnosed with BPD.


METHODS
Review of the literature and clinical data from the author's work.


CONCLUSIONS
The borderline dilemma is inherently paradoxical and, in some ways, reflects the human condition. Psychoanalytic concepts can further our understanding of the therapeutic difficulties encountered in the struggle to make sense of life's inherent dualities. The borderline patient is acutely sensitive to these dualities, which the therapist must tolerate and understand. Often, a negative therapeutic reaction may impede progress.
Yegdich
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Mental Health Center, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Australia.
D000328:Adult; D001883:Borderline Personality Disorder / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*; D003220:Conflict, Psychological; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008398:Masochism; D009723:Nurse-Patient Relations; D011568:Psychiatric Nursing; D011574:Psychoanalytic Theory; D011613:Psychotherapy; D012448:Sadism; D012649:Self Concept