Those who interact with a person with BPD must attempt to walk a very thin line between, on the one hand, providing reassurance of her worthiness and, on the other, confirming the necessary expectations. They must try to respond supportively, but without overreacting. Affection and physical touching, such as hugging and holding a hand, can communicate that she is a valued person, but if it is exploitative, it will hinder trust. If caring results in overprotectiveness, she stops feeling responsible for her behavior. A delicate balance of Support and Empathy with Truth is the ideal approach (see
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