4. Emotional Intensity: It’s Not Just “Being Dramatic”
When a child with BPD experiences emotion, it’s akin to a sound system with the volume knob turned up to the max. Emotional intensity is one of the most defining, yet misunderstood, aspects of BPD in kids. Forget the stereotype of the “overdramatic” child; we’re venturing into an emotional landscape where every feeling is amplified tenfold.
Think of it this way: you might feel a sprinkle, but they’re experiencing a torrential downpour. A minor disappointment could be devastating, and a small success could induce euphoria. What makes this so complex is that these intense emotions are incredibly fleeting. They can change as quickly as clouds shifting in the sky.
But let’s not gloss over the impact of this intensity. Imagine navigating a world where your emotions hold you hostage at their highest peaks and lowest valleys, multiple times a day. For kids with BPD, this is their everyday reality. No, they’re not “just being kids,” they’re dealing with an emotional volatility that can be as exhausting as it is unpredictable. (4)
