What is Histrionic Personality Disorder?
Personality is one of the ways an individual differentiates him or herself from others. One’s personality informs one’s a way of thinking, behaving, and feeling, and it is unique to each person. An individual’s personality is influenced by external stimuli (e.g. environment, experiences, etc.) and inherited characteristics. A personality disorder, as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) is a “way of thinking, feeling and behaving that deviates from the expectations of culture, causes distress or problems functioning, and lasts over time.” Histrionic personality disorder (HDP) is a psychological disorder categorized as a Cluster B personality disorder. According to Psychology Today HDP is characterized by a pattern of excessive attention-seeking behaviors, emotional overreaction, and seductive behavior.
DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA AND SYMPTOMS
As provided in the DSM-5, individuals diagnosed with histrionic personality disorder must have five or more of the following symptoms:
Experiences discomfort when not the center of attention
Exhibits seductive or provocative behavior
Expresses shifting and shallow emotions
Uses appearance to draw attention
Uses Impressionistic and vague speech
Expresses dramatic or exaggerated emotions
Is suggestible (i.e. easily influenced by others)
Considers relationships more intimate than they are
Familiarizing oneself with the symptoms and diagnostic criteria for HPD can be helpful in understanding the pertinent information needed to recognize when it may be best to obtain professional guidance and/ or an evaluation to be properly diagnosed.
CAUSES
The cause of histrionic personality disorder remains unknown. Research findings have identified certain biological, environmental and genetic factors in correlation with one’s increased susceptibility for developing HPD. Psychology Today asserts that HPD occurs more frequently in women than in men. Childhood events and/ or trauma could contribute to one’s development of HPD. A family history of histrionic personality disorder and/ or other Cluster B personality disorders can also increase one’s propensity for developing HPD. Often individuals with histrionic personality disorder can seem outwardly fully functioning members of society and even excel in social and occupational environments. However, if left untreated, the symptoms of HPD can lead to significant internal distress and place an individual at an increased risk of developing depression.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.