Take This Borderline Personality Disorder Test

Disclaimer: This test is not a diagnostic tool or substitute for professional mental health advice. It is not meant to imply the prevalence of any mental or physical health issue(s). 

Who is this borderline personality disorder test for?

This borderline personality disorder (BPD) test is designed for anyone who suspects they may be experiencing symptoms associated with BPD or who is curious about their emotional and relational patterns. While not a diagnostic tool, this test is intended to help people self-assess their experiences and recognize potential signs of BPD, which can then inform their decision-making about seeking support or professional help if needed — for BPD or other mental health concerns. 

Keep in mind that this quiz does not replace advice from a licensed mental health provider and is not intended for diagnosis. If someone suspects they may have BPD or any other mental health condition, seeking guidance from a licensed therapist or psychiatrist for a comprehensive assessment and appropriate treatment recommendations is recommended.

How can taking this borderline personality disorder test be helpful?

This BPD test can help you identify your emotional and relational patterns, increasing self-awareness regarding potential symptoms and risk factors of BPD. This awareness can prompt people to identify areas of concern, initiate conversations about mental health, and seek guidance from mental health professionals.

What is borderline personality disorder? 

BPD is a mental health condition characterized by a pattern of unstable emotions, relationships, self-image, and behaviors. People with BPD often experience intense mood swings, impulsivity, and difficulty regulating emotions. They may have a distorted sense of self, leading to feelings of emptiness and identity disturbance. Additionally, people with BPD may exhibit intense and unstable relationships, alternating between idealization and devaluation of others.

The symptoms of BPD typically emerge during adolescence or early adulthood and can significantly impair functioning in various areas of life, including work, relationships, and overall well-being. However, with appropriate BPD treatment, such as psychotherapy and sometimes medication, individuals with BPD can learn to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

BPD is one of the cluster b personality disorders, a grouping of personality disorders characterized by dramatic, emotional, and erratic behaviors. This cluster includes four specific personality disorders: borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder. While BPD is not a depressive disorder, individuals with BPD often have comorbid conditions, including depression, which may complicate a BPD diagnosis and treatment.There are many treatment options for people with BPD. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is the most widely used and effective treatment. DBT focuses on teaching individuals skills to manage their emotions, improve interpersonal relationships, regulate their behaviors, and tolerate distress. Knowing the signs of BPD is key to understanding your experiences and being able to access the appropriate resources and treatments to address your unique challenges.

What Is the Best Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

Alex Bachert, MPH

Personality Disorders

Gender differences in borderline personality disorder

Research indicates that treatment histories vary between genders, with men more likely to have treatment histories associated with substance abuse, while women are more inclined towards pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy interventions. These gender differences emphasize the need for tailored approaches to diagnosing and treating BPD.

Additionally, research shows that men and women with BPD exhibit different lifetime patterns of impulse-related disorders. Men with BPD report more lifetime substance abuse disorders, antisocial personality traits, and intermittent explosive disorder not overlapping with BPD diagnosis. In contrast, women with BPD report a higher incidence of a lifetime eating disorder.

What do the results of this borderline personality disorder test mean?

This BPD test isn’t meant to be a BPD diagnosis test, and it isn’t a substitute for professional mental health support. This quiz is designed to help you understand how likely it is that you are experiencing BPD. Understanding the likelihood that you are experiencing symptoms associated with BPD can help you identify the potential presence of BPD symptoms so that you can seek the appropriate support, therapy, and resources that you need. Keep in mind that the quiz results are just one component of understanding your experiences and should be used with other forms of support, including connecting with a mental health professional and therapy.

What is a normal score on this test?

There is not a “normal” score on this borderline personality disorder test, as experiences and challenges of BPD can vary. However, the results of this quiz exist on a spectrum of BPD symptoms, ranging from a low likelihood of experiencing symptoms associated with BPD to a high likelihood of experiencing symptoms associated with BPD. Interpret the score in the context of your overall mental health and functioning rather than comparing it to a predefined “normal.”

What is a low score on this test?

A low score on this quiz indicates that you have little to no signs of BPD. This most likely means you rarely or never experienced the examples listed in the quiz. However, BPD can manifest in various ways, and a low score on the quiz doesn’t necessarily guarantee that there is no presence of BPD.

What is a high score on this test?

A high score on this quiz indicates that you reported experiencing frequent instances of behaviors characteristic of BPD. This means that you often or very often experienced the examples listed in the quiz. Seeking support from a mental health professional or trusted friend can help you navigate your feelings and experiences in a safe and healthy manner.