Splitting (psychology) Splitting, also called binary thinking, dichotomous thinking, black-and-white thinking, all-or-nothing thinking, or thinking in extremes, is the failure in a person's thinking to bring …

Mar 31, 2026 · Splitting is a symptom of borderline personality disorder where a person is unable to hold opposing thoughts and sees everything as black or white.

Dec 26, 2021 · Not all splitting is malignant, nor is it safe to assume pathological splitting indicates borderline personality disorder.

Sep 3, 2025 · BPD is characterized by extremes in the way a person thinks, feels, and acts. Splitting is one example of this type of thinking.

May 13, 2026 · Splitting is a mental mechanism or pattern of thinking that is characterized by interpreting complex or overwhelming situations in oversimplified, either/or terms. This tendency often provides a …

Jan 12, 2022 · Splitting is a psychology term that describes an inability to hold opposing thoughts, feelings, or beliefs. People use splitting as a defense mechanism, unconsciously implementing the …

Oct 1, 2024 · Explore the concept of splitting in therapy, its impact on treatment, and effective strategies for therapists to navigate this complex psychological process.

Apr 15, 2026 · Splitting is a relatively common defense mechanism that can lead people to see things in black and white – without nuance. This thought process can potentially damage relationships and …

Jan 25, 2026 · Is splitting a defense mechanism? Yes. Splitting can function as a defense mechanism that protects you from painful mixed emotions, shame, fear, or perceived abandonment by creating …

In this article, we'll explore what splitting is, why it occurs, and how to deal with it in both yourself and others. Splitting as a Cognitive Distortion A cognitive distortion occurs when our thoughts warp our …