What are the Causes of BPD?

BPD can be explained by a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological risk factors.

Biology:
Brain scans of BPD patients show abnormalities of an overactive amygdala and under-active hippocampus. This means the part of the brain that controls emotional regulation and impulses is not functioning properly. Research also indicates that there may be a genetic risk for developing BPD.

Psychology:
Research shows that individuals with BPD may adopt predominantly negative thoughts about social and emotional cues (including verbal communication and facial recognition), which can impact self-concept and mood. They also display a diminished ability to mentalize emotional states without making assumptions about other people’s thoughts. This can make interpersonal communication a challenge. Individuals with BPD can be sensitive to emotional stimuli, and struggle with a lack of coherent self-identity, or sense of self. They often have real fears of abandonment and attachment issues that can complicate relationships.

Environment:
Research shows that people who experience invalidating environments characterized by child maltreatment, parental hostility, disorganized attachments, peer hostility, or trauma can be at a higher risk for developing BPD. While early BPD research linked it with child abuse, current literature shows that BPD develops in combination with other biological and social factors. Invalidating communication in relationships, including emotional abuse, can also be a risk factor in the environment for BPD.