Is Someone With BPD More Likely to Cheat

Is Someone With BPD More Likely to Cheat BPD Living With BPD Print Borderline Personality Disorder and Cheating By Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and associate professor of psychology at Eastern Connecticut State University. Learn about our editorial policy Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on November 18, 2019 Vstock LLC/Tetra images/Getty Images More in BPD Living With BPD Diagnosis Treatment Related Conditions Being in a relationship with someone with borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be an overwhelming and frustrating situation. Any relationship has its ups and downs, but BPD-related issues can make typical relationship problems even worse. However, being with someone with BPD doesnt mean your relationship is destined to fail. Many people have strong relationships with someone who has BPD. BPD and Infidelity Some people have negative associations between BPD and infidelity, but there is currently no research that shows a connection between BPD and an increased likelihood of cheating. However, one study on the prevalence of cheating showed that 15 to 23 percent of married men and women had cheated on their partners,?? so its quite likely that some people with BPD will have cheated as well. Two of the key features of borderline personality?? are problems in relationships and problems with impulsive behavior. These symptoms can make potential cheating an even more emotional experience with severe consequences. People with BPD often have an intense need to feel loved and accepted. When they are feeling abandoned or rejected, they may engage in impulsive or risky behaviors. They might choose these behaviors without considering the consequences of their actions in order to try to feel better in the short term. Infidelity could fall into this category. Why People With BPD Tend to Be Distrustful and Accusatory While those with BPD have the same likelihood of cheating as others, they do have a higher likelihood of suspecting their partners are cheating.?? One of the symptoms of BPD is the assumption that others are going to cause hurt. Due to low self-esteem, individuals with BPD have difficulty believing that someone could love them and remain faithful to them. As such, they are more likely to assume that their partner will cause them pain in some way.   Also, because of the overwhelming fear of abandonment thats a hallmark trait of BPD,?? they can be more suspicious and distrustful, assuming or even truly believing that their partners are messing around behind their backs. In turn, this negatively affects their loved ones and their relationships. If your partner with BPD wrongfully accuses you of cheating, you are likely to be angry and emotional, and you may even think about ending the relationship. In this sense, BPD can worsen relationship issues. Couples Therapy May Be Helpful for Managing BPD-Related Issues While having BPD does not necessarily increase the risk of infidelity, BPD can be a huge strain on relationships for both people involved. If you or your loved one is struggling with symptoms of BPD, contact a mental health provider or therapist. While anyone with BPD can greatly benefit from treatment, going to therapy additionally as a couple can help you work through relationship issues and understand where your partner is coming from. Through your sessions, youll both learn essential communication and coping skills that can help you through tough times and strengthen your relationship.   Can Couples Counseling Help Your Relationship?