Developed by Adolescent Mental Health Specialists
This assessment tool was developed under the supervision of Dr. Elizabeth Turner, MD, a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist with over 12 years of experience working with teenagers experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges.
Note for Teens
We know that talking about your feelings and experiences can be hard. This assessment was designed specifically for people your age, and there are no right or wrong answers. Your honest responses will help you better understand your emotions and experiences.
If at any point you feel uncomfortable or distressed by the questions, it's okay to take a break or talk to a trusted adult.
Note for Parents/Guardians
This assessment is designed to be completed by the teenager, but your support is valuable. We recommend allowing your teen privacy to answer honestly while remaining available if they need help.
The results of this assessment are not a diagnosis but can be a helpful starting point for a conversation with a mental health professional.
About This Teen Assessment
This assessment tool is specifically designed for teenagers and young adults to help understand potential symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The questions have been adapted to be age-appropriate and relevant to adolescent experiences.
What You Should Know:
- This assessment consists of 30 questions designed specifically for teenagers.
- The questions focus on emotions, relationships, self-image, and behaviors common during adolescence.
- We use everyday language and situations that teens can relate to.
- Your responses are confidential and will not be shared without your consent.
- The assessment takes approximately 10 minutes to complete.
- You can change your answers before submitting the assessment.
Understanding the Results:
Your results will provide information about potential BPD traits in the context of adolescent development. It's important to remember that:
- Many BPD symptoms overlap with normal teenage development
- This is not a diagnostic tool
- Only a qualified mental health professional specializing in adolescent care can provide an official diagnosis
- Results should be discussed with a healthcare provider
BPD in Adolescents
The following table shows how BPD criteria might look different in teenagers compared to adults:
| BPD Feature | How It May Present in Teens |
|---|---|
| Fear of Abandonment | Extreme distress when friends don't respond to texts; excessive attachment to teachers or counselors |
| Unstable Relationships | Frequent friend drama; intense social media conflicts; rapid changes in "best friend" status |
| Identity Confusion | Extreme and frequent changes in style, values, interests beyond normal teen exploration |
| Impulsive Behavior | Taking excessive risks even compared to peers; sudden changes in diet, appearance, or activities |
| Emotional Instability | Mood shifts multiple times per day; reactions disproportionate to situations; difficulty calming down |
| Feelings of Emptiness | Persistent feelings of boredom or emptiness not relieved by activities normally enjoyed |
Professional Endorsement
"This teen-specific assessment has been carefully developed to account for the unique developmental stage of adolescence. It can help differentiate between normal teenage experiences and potential signs of borderline personality traits that may warrant professional attention."
Board Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist
Fellow of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Important Medical Disclaimer
This assessment is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. BPD diagnosis in teenagers is complex and requires thorough evaluation by mental health professionals with expertise in adolescent development.
Many of these symptoms overlap with normal teenage development and other conditions like ADHD, depression, anxiety, and trauma responses.
If you are experiencing severe symptoms or having thoughts of self-harm, please contact emergency services, tell a trusted adult immediately, or text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line).
This tool was last reviewed and updated by our adolescent mental health team on .