What marks borderline personality disorder?

Borderline personality disorder is characterized primarily by extreme instability in various aspects of a person's life, including their mood, self-identity, and impulse control. Individuals with this disorder often experience intense emotional reactions and may have difficulty managing their feelings, leading to rapid mood changes. Their sense of self might be unstable, causing them to feel unsure about their identity or values, which can further exacerbate their emotional turmoil and interpersonal relationships.

Impulsivity is another hallmark characteristic, often resulting in risky behaviors that can be harmful, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or impulsive spending. This instability can result in tumultuous relationships, as individuals may swing between idealizing others and devaluing them, contributing to a pattern of intense and volatile interpersonal experiences.

This answer reflects the essential traits of borderline personality disorder, helping to distinguish it from other mental health conditions that may have different symptoms or manifestations. The other options touch on various traits that could be seen in different contexts or disorders but do not encapsulate the core features of borderline personality disorder as effectively or fully.