ASWB LCSW Social Work Clinical Practice Exam

What is the main focus of Borderline Personality Disorder in males and females?

1. Impulsivity

2. Social withdrawal

3. Depression

4. Psychotic episodes

The correct answer is: Impulsivity

The main focus of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in both males and females is impulsivity. Individuals with BPD often display a pattern of extreme emotional responses, unstable relationships, and significant challenges with self-image and identity. Impulsivity manifests in various behaviors, such as reckless driving, substance abuse, self-harming behaviors, and disordered eating, which are all common in people with this diagnosis. Although individuals with BPD may also experience symptoms of social withdrawal, depression, or even brief psychotic episodes, these are generally seen as secondary to the core feature of impulsivity. The impulsive behavior is often driven by intense emotional experiences and can lead to significant distress and dysfunction in their personal and social lives. Thus, recognizing impulsivity as a central characteristic allows for more targeted interventions and treatment approaches aimed at helping individuals manage their behaviors and emotions effectively.