On the Interaction with Borderline Mothers. Orientation Possibilities for Children of Affected Mothers

Abstract

Christine Ann Lawson, a clinical social worker, examines the special relationship between children and their mothers who are suffering from borderline personality disorder. She impressively differentiates between the various, interconnected symptoms and appearances of this impulse-driven illness and the resulting destructive consequences for the dependant child. The experiences resurface again in the grown child and cause repeated destructive interaction with the mother. This interaction stems from the child’s unprocessed trauma and fears. Understanding the Borderline Mother shows children ways in which they can approach themselves and their illnesses with understanding and avoid or reduce the destructive confrontations with their mother, confrontations that still produce fear, shame, and anger.