ICD-10 Criteria (F60.31)
The ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases) is the official diagnostic system of the WHO. Borderline Personality Disorder is classified under F60.31.
Guidelines
Section titled “Guidelines”Some signs of emotional instability are present; additionally, the person’s own self-image, goals, and “inner preferences” (including sexual ones) are often unclear and disturbed.
There is usually a chronic feeling of inner emptiness. The tendency toward intense but unstable relationships can lead to repeated emotional crises, with excessive efforts to avoid being abandoned, and with suicide threats or self-harming behaviours (which can also occur without clear triggers).
Diagnostic Criteria
Section titled “Diagnostic Criteria”Criterion A
Section titled “Criterion A”The general criteria for a personality disorder must be met.
Criterion B – Impulsive Type
Section titled “Criterion B – Impulsive Type”At least three of the following characteristics must be present:
- A marked tendency to act unexpectedly and without considering the consequences
- A marked tendency toward quarrels and conflicts with others, especially when impulsive actions are interrupted or criticised
- A tendency toward outbursts of anger or violence with an inability to control explosive behaviour
- Difficulty maintaining actions that are not immediately rewarded
- Unstable and unpredictable mood
Additional Criteria for the Borderline Type
Section titled “Additional Criteria for the Borderline Type”The above criteria must be present, and additionally at least two of the following characteristics and behaviours:
- Identity disturbance: Disturbance and uncertainty regarding self-image, goals, and “inner preferences” (including sexual ones)
- Relationship instability: A tendency to engage in intense but unstable relationships, often resulting in emotional crises
- Fear of abandonment: Excessive efforts to avoid being abandoned
- Self-harm: Repeated threats of or acts of self-harm
- Chronic emptiness: Persistent feelings of emptiness
Distinction from the Impulsive Type
Section titled “Distinction from the Impulsive Type”Comorbidities of Borderline Personality Disorder
Section titled “Comorbidities of Borderline Personality Disorder”The following pyramid shows typical comorbidities (co-occurring conditions) that frequently appear alongside Borderline Personality Disorder:
ICD Classification in the Spectrum
Section titled “ICD Classification in the Spectrum”The following diagrams show the classification of Borderline Personality Disorder (F60.31) in the context of related personality disorders according to ICD-10.
See Also
Section titled “See Also”- DSM-IV Criteria – alternative diagnostic system
- Borderline Self-Test – self-assessment for orientation