Hi Laura,
In a recent thread you asked “Why are some people so upset by labels?” and posted the following:
“ok, I think I've had this as a topic in the past, but I'm bringing it up again, because a poster on here definitely sparked it.
I read something by someone today on this group, that was a definite sign of BPD.
Now, my question is, if I were to address that person and say "that was definite bpd behavior" why would they most likely react with rage at me?
See, for me, if you see something in me, bpd, npd, avoidant, b*tchy, whatever, I have no problem if you tell me, and, many HAVE on here. The issue I have is, if it's not true and there are no signs of it.
I can tell anyone that I struggle with control issues, codependency, anger, etc, but I will speak up if someone says I'm something that there is no proof of.
In this case, the person was referring to painting people black in order to justify deserting them...that is BPD and maybe even NPD, not sure, but I cannot tell this person what I saw in that statement at all, lest I be flamed, called a judgemental, met with some HOW DARE YOU's...I just guess I don't understand it.”
The answer is:
Labels or diagnoses are appropriate when a neutral, trained professional (Psychologist, Psychiatrist, or Social Worker) spends at least one or more sessions with a person and does a complete psychological evaluation. Informal labels by non-trained or not fully trained parties are often colored or biased by one’s own history/issues and may be based on the labeler’s blindness and self-deception. This is why advanced degrees and licensure in the mental health field requires years of detailed supervision—and often one’s own psychological treatment. Informal labels/diagnoses by non-trained or even partially trained persons are often based on ignorance or a tiny bit of information (undergraduate psychology courses, popular books, etc.) and frequently serve as a form of attack. Thus, people have every right to be upset by the labels placed on them by non-professionals.
I hope this helps.
Best,
Richard