Histrionic personality disorder also known as HPD is a personality disorder that includes excessive emotion and an abnormal need for the approval of others. Those with histrionic personality disorder are attention-seeking and often demonstrate an inappropriate seductiveness that can start as early as adolescence. The following symptoms define the classic example of histrionic personality disorder:
1. Seductiveness that can be demonstrated by flirtatiousness or provocative actions.
2. Over-the-top, lively and overly dramatic actions.
3. Egocentric behavior which is characteristic of a person with histrionic personality disorder.
4. Being easily influenced by peers
5. Self-indulgence
6. The constant yearn for attention
7. Intense emotions that is difficult to control leading to overly dramatic behavior.
8. Manipulative behavior that could be used as a means of getting ahead.
9. Seeking approval from others rather than internally.
1. An attention-seeking nature that can only be quenched by external means
2. Frequent and unpredictable mood swings
3. Lack of sympathy for others
4. Inability to hold relationships for extended periods of time
5. Excessive focus on appearance
6. Anxiety, depression, inability to deal with loss
7. Inability/difficulty taking criticism
8. Impatience, quickly becoming bored in a given situation
9. Risky decision making
As with other personality disorders, the direct cause of histrionic personality disorder is uncertain. Previous traumatic events such as deaths, divorces or accidents can cause anxiety. It seems that histrionic personality disorder has both a genetic and an environmental root. Histrionic personality disorder is similar to antisocial personality disorder. Whereas histrionic personality disorder more often affects women, anti social personality disorder more often affects men. Symptoms of histrionic personality disorder are often the most obvious when the sufferer enters a romantic relationship.
Psychotherapy or counseling is often the approach to dealing with this disorder once it is diagnosed. Like other mental disorders, the diagnosis of histrionic personality disorder can be tricky due to the unavailability of a test to identify sufferers. A diagnosis of histrionic personality disorder often focuses on the patient's appearance, behavior and family history. Medication often does not work in the treatment of this disorder. With mental illness, the sufferer generally is unaware that they are dealing with a disorder and often needs a close friend or family member to bring it to their attention so that they can seek help.
The overly dramatic behavior of someone with histrionic personality disorder can be manifested in both physical appearance (hair, makeup, provocative clothing and actions. The theatrical component of histrionic personality disorder describes a sufferer who is constantly performing as if on stage. Like an actor, the sufferer constantly feels the need to be in the spotlight and will act in any way to get there.
If you suspect you or a loved one could be suffering with histrionic personality disorder, contact a mental health professional to discuss your options.
