The Limbic System and BPD
An image of the limbic system within the brain.
The limbic system is the center of emotion in the brain. An area of the limbic system, the amygdala is the source of negative emotion, most notably fear and arousal. Both the amygdala and the limbic system play integral parts in Borderline Personality Disorder. Patients with BPD often posses limbic systems that are overly active. Emotions are subsequently exaggerated and patients with BPD often experience emotional instability, fear, and anger. The dysfunctional limbic system can influence other areas of the brain resulting in other symptoms such as anxiety and psychosis. With such a large percentage of BPD patients having suffered abuse and with abuse being linked to decreased prefrontal cortex activity, the ability of a patient with BPD to suppress the impulses produced by the limbic system is greatly decreased.