Histrionic Personality Disorder

Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD)

HPD is characterized by at least 3 of the following:

• self-dramatization, theatricality, exaggerated expression of emotions;
• suggestibility, easily influenced by others or by circumstances;
• shallow and labile affectivity;
• continual seeking for excitement and activities in which he/she is the center of attention;
• inappropriate seductiveness in appearance or behavior;
• over-concern with physical attractiveness.

Histrionic personality disorder is defined by the American Psychiatric Association as a personality disorder characterized by a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking, including inappropriately seductive behavior. These individuals are lively, dramatic, vivacious, enthusiastic, and flirtatious.

Associated features may include egocentrism, self-indulgence, continuous longing for appreciation, and persistent manipulative behavior to achieve their own needs.

People with this disorder are usually able to function at a high level and can be successful socially and professionally. People with histrionic personality disorder usually have good social skills, but they tend to use these skills to manipulate other people and become the center of attention. Furthermore, histrionic personality disorder may affect a person’s social or romantic relationships or their ability to cope with losses or failures.

They start relationships well but tend to falter when depth and durability are needed, alternating between extremes of idealization and devaluation.

They often fail to see their own personal situation realistically, instead tending to dramatize and exaggerate their difficulties. They may become easily bored and have trouble dealing with frustration.

Additional symptoms include:

• Exhibitionist behavior.
• Constant seeking of reassurance or approval.
• Excessive dramatics with exaggerated displays of emotions
• Excessive sensitivity to criticism or disapproval.
• Proud of own personality, unwillingness to change, any change is viewed as a threat.
• Inappropriately seductive appearance or behavior.
• Somatic symptoms, and using these symptoms as a means of garnering attention.
• A need to be the center of attention.
• Low tolerance for frustration or delayed gratification.
• Rapidly shifting emotional states that may appear superficial or exaggerated to others.
• Tendency to believe that relationships are more intimate than they actually are.
• Making rash decisions.

Disingenuous histrionic—antisocial features

. . . glib and superficial charm, grandiosity, need for stimulation, pathological lying, conning and manipulating, lack of remorse, callousness, poor behavioral controls, impulsivity, irresponsibility, failure to accept responsibility for one’s own actions and so forth.

Despite the seemingly sincere, intelligent, even charming external presentation, internally the psychopathic person does not have the ability to experience genuine emotions.