Which personality disorder is commonly associated with dramatic mood swings and fear of abandonment, often with impulsive actions?

• A. Borderline personality disorder
• B. Narcissistic personality disorder
• C. Schizoid personality disorder
• D. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

Answer: (A)

Emotional instability with fear of abandonment and impulsive behavior is a hallmark of borderline personality disorder. People with this pattern often have intense, rapidly changing emotions and unstable, troubled relationships. They may go to great lengths to avoid real or imagined rejection, which can drive impulsive actions in response to perceived abandonment. The mood swings are a defining feature, and they’re frequently accompanied by feelings of emptiness, anger, or dissociation, all of which reinforce the pattern of instability.

This set of features helps distinguish it from other personality disorders. Narcissistic personality disorder centers on grandiosity and a need for admiration rather than a pervasive fear of being abandoned and sudden mood shifts. Schizoid personality disorder involves social detachment and lack of interest in relationships. Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder emphasizes rigidity, perfectionism, and control rather than emotional volatility and abandonment fears.

So, the described combination of dramatic mood changes, fear of abandonment, and impulsive behavior best fits borderline personality disorder.