Histrionic personality disorder

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) is a personality disorder characterized by a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior[1]. Individuals with HPD may display theatricality, exaggerated emotional expressions, and self-centeredness, which often interferes with their personal and social functioning[2].

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Some common symptoms of Histrionic Personality Disorder include[3]:

  • Constantly seeking attention
  • Exaggerated emotional expressions
  • Dramatic, theatrical, and excessively emotional behavior
  • Easily influenced by others
  • Shallow, rapidly changing emotions
  • Strong need for approval
  • Preoccupation with physical appearance
  • Inappropriate flirtatious or seductive behavior
  • Overestimation of closeness in relationships

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of Histrionic Personality Disorder is unknown. However, it is believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and social factors may contribute to the development of HPD[4]. Some potential factors include:

  • Family history of personality disorders or other mental health disorders
  • Childhood experiences, such as trauma or neglect
  • Sociocultural influences, including societal norms and expectations

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Histrionic Personality Disorder is diagnosed by a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, based on a clinical evaluation of the individual's symptoms and history[5]. Diagnosis usually involves:

  • A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, including an assessment of personal and family medical history
  • An interview to discuss symptoms, behaviors, and experiences
  • Comparing symptoms to criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10)
  • It is essential to rule out other mental health disorders and medical conditions that may have similar symptoms before making a definitive diagnosis[6].

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for Histrionic Personality Disorder typically involves psychotherapy and, in some cases, medication[7]. Common treatment options include:

  • Psychotherapy: Various forms of psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy, can help individuals with HPD develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve self-awareness, and address interpersonal issues[8].
  • Medication: While there are no specific medications for HPD, individuals may be prescribed medications to manage co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression[9].

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

  • With appropriate treatment, individuals with Histrionic Personality Disorder can experience significant improvements in their symptoms and overall functioning[10]. Early intervention and a strong support network can improve the prognosis.

Epidemiology[edit | edit source]

  • Histrionic Personality Disorder is estimated to affect approximately 2% to 3% of the general population[11]. HPD is more commonly diagnosed in women, but this may be due to gender biases in clinical assessments[12].

Summary[edit | edit source]

Histrionic personality disorder is a disorder characterized by an enduring pattern of excessively intense and superficial emotionality.

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ "Histrionic personality disorder". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  2. ↑ "Histrionic Personality Disorder". Psychology Today. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  3. ↑ "Histrionic Personality Disorder". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  4. ↑ "Histrionic personality disorder". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  5. ↑ "Histrionic Personality Disorder". Psychology Today. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  6. ↑ "Histrionic personality disorder - Diagnosis and treatment". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  7. ↑ "Histrionic Personality Disorder". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  8. ↑ "Histrionic Personality Disorder". Psychology Today. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  9. ↑ "Histrionic personality disorder - Diagnosis and treatment". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  10. ↑ "Histrionic Personality Disorder". WebMD. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  11. ↑ "Personality Disorders: Epidemiology and Public Health Issues". International Journal of Epidemiology. Retrieved 2021-08-20.
  12. ↑ "Histrionic personality disorder". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2021-08-20.

External links[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Histrionic personality disorder Resources
Wikipedia


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD