online stigma and BPD: reacting to the internet's worst takes on pete davidson and jenna ortega

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Episode Description: This episode was inspired by a viral tweet about rumors swirling regarding Pete Davidson’s alleged (and now completely debunked) 'new relationship' with actress Jenna Ortega, highlighting the paradox of how 'a man with BPD' could possibly do so well with women. The tweet sparked a firestorm of replies that revealed incredibly troubling, deep-seated biases regarding the borderline personality disorder diagnosis in general, and highlighted our collective societal tendency to dehumanize one another online behind the anonymity of keyboards and smartphones.

Together, we’ll unpack the layers of sexism, stigma, and stereotypes evident in the tweet itself as well as the replies. We’ll dissect how gender biases color our perceptions, the widespread misconceptions and ill-informed societal views about borderline personality disorder and other DSM diagnoses, and emphasize the damaging effects of labeling and reductionism perpetuated by the biomedical model of mental health. You’ll also gain insights into how trauma, like that experienced by Pete Davidson with the loss of his father on 9/11, is often overlooked in favor of simplistic, stigmatizing narratives and labels.

By tuning in, you’ll learn about the harmful trends in how society views and speaks about personality disorders, the importance of considering the whole person beyond their diagnosis, and the critical need for more humane, nuanced, and compassionate conversations around psychological suffering.

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The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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