The Four Types of BPD: A Detailed Exploration

What are the four types of BPD?

Borderline personality disorder is a mental health condition that involves symptoms like an unstable sense of self, intense emotions, sudden mood swings, and impulsivity. If you have BPD, you also struggle with an intense fear of abandonment and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships.

Some researchers propose that BPD, as well as other personality disorders, can be broken down into distinct subtypes based on how the symptoms show up. For instance, psychologist Theodore Millon suggested that BPD variations could include impulsive, discouraged, petulant, and self-destructive subtypes. Although they aren’t official diagnoses, learning more about the types of BPD might help you better understand your BPD symptoms or the symptoms of someone you love.

Impulsive BPD: Living on the edge

If you have this type of BDP, you tend to be flighty and irresponsible, especially if you aren’t receiving the attention you crave. For instance, you might suddenly decide to go on a reckless joyride in a car or make impulsive purchases that drain your bank account. You might also turn to substance abuse or other types of risky behavior, putting yourself in harm’s way as you chase excitement or attention.

Discouraged BPD: The hidden struggle

People in this subtype tend to be overly reliant on one or two people in their lives. Feelings of self-doubt and helplessness lead you to be clingy. You might panic at the thought of having to navigate even fairly simple tasks and responsibilities alone. For instance, you might only venture out for walks or go to the grocery store if you can follow someone else’s lead. You avoid conflict, so if you feel abandoned or betrayed, you fall into depression rather than show anger.

Petulant BPD: Frustration, anger, and resentment

This type of BPD involves a resentful outlook and passive-aggressive behavior. You might typically come across as irritable and impatient, often complaining about your life and blaming others for your grievances. Because of this, you usually can’t find comfort in others. When confronted by other people who are tired of their pessimism, you might quickly show remorse and self-resentment.

Self-Destructive BPD: A deep internal wound

People with this BPD subtype are even more at risk of self-harm. For instance, you might turn to cutting or hitting themselves as “punishment” or as an outlet for intense negative feelings. You might neglect self-care, intentionally skipping meals or denying yourself sleep, and frequently threaten suicide.

The profound role of trauma in shaping BPD subtypes

Research on BPD subtypes is still limited. So, it’s hard to say what specific factors might affect which type of BPD a person develops. However, in general, BPD seems to be caused by some combination of factors, including:

• Biology: Certain parts of the brain might be overactive, resulting in increased fear and anxiety.
• Genetics: It’s possible to inherit certain traits that make you more susceptible to developing BPD.
• Environment: Events and circumstances such as childhood abuse and neglect could contribute to BPD.

Certain symptoms of BPD subtypes might be attempts to cope with the distress of past trauma. For instance, the clinginess and self-doubt that appear in discouraged BPD might be linked to memories of a parent who was dismissive of your needs. Or perhaps you had caretakers who were always at odds, and you felt caught up in their conflict, leading to the resentful and irritable traits of petulant borderline personality disorder.

Tailored treatment approaches for BPD types

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and other forms of psychotherapy are the go-to treatment options for managing most of the symptoms of BPD. However, depending on the subtype and the symptoms that most disrupt your life, the treatment plan can be adjusted to address your specific needs. Here are a few examples:

Petulant BPD. DBT sessions may place a greater emphasis on emotion regulation and distress tolerance, which can help you manage irritable moods. Interpersonal effectiveness in DBT might focus on addressing your passive-aggressive habits. CBT may be used to help you identify and reframe thoughts that contribute to resentment and pessimism. When it comes to medication, you might be prescribed mood stabilizers.

Impulsive BPD. A core trait of this BPD subtype is the tendency to act without thinking. DBT sessions could focus on emotion regulation or mindfulness to help you better pause and reflect before acting. A psychiatrist might also prescribe antipsychotics to help with impulse control.

Self-destructive BPD. The treatment might emphasize coming up with a safety plan. It’s crucial to have steps in place for when you’re feeling suicidal or have the urge to self-harm. Medications such as mood stabilizers or antidepressants might be prescribed to help balance your moods.

Discouraged BPD. Psychodynamic therapy could help you explore the roots of low self-worth. An emphasis on interpersonal skills in DBT allows you to practice expressing your needs and being more assertive. Meanwhile, skill-building exercises improve your sense of autonomy. Antidepressants could help your low mood.

If you have BPD, you might feel as if there’s no escape from your own emotional outbursts or other self-sabotating behaviors. Know that it’s possible to manage your intense emotions and feel more in control of your life. It starts with finding a mental health expert who can help you develop a personalized treatment plan. You can start with reading our reviews of the Best Online Psychiatrist Platforms We Tested.

Last updated or reviewed on November 25, 2025