by Anja Emerson

Created on: August 23, 2009

Histrionic personality disorder is a psychological condition characterized by attention-seeking behavior and excessive displays of emotion. Individuals suffering from this disorder are dramatic, gullible, and overly enthusiastic. They may express their feelings in a theatrical, exaggerated way, in order to draw attention towards them. They may also dress provocatively and behave in inappropriately seductive ways.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders defines this disorder as a pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention seeking behavior that begins in early adulthood, meeting at least 5 of the following criteria:

(1) is uncomfortable in situations in which he or she is not the center of attention
(2) interaction with others is often characterized by inappropriate sexually seductive or
provocative behavior
(3) displays rapidly shifting and shallow expression of emotions
(4) consistently uses physical appearance to draw attention to self
(5) has a style of speech that is excessively impressionistic and lacking in detail
(6) shows self-dramatization, theatricality, and exaggerated expression of emotion
(7) is suggestible, i.e., easily influenced by others or circumstances
(8) considers relationships to be more intimate than they actually are

The prevalence of this disorder isn't very high, only accounting for 2-3% of the population. It has been more often reported in women than in men, though this may not reflect the truth, since provocative behavior is less acceptable in women.

These individuals can function well in society and attain success because of their social skills; however, their relationships are often volatile and superficial. They often seek treatment for depression after a relationship ends, because they find it hard to cope with their feelings of abandonment and loneliness.

This disorder is diagnosed by mental health professionals by using specifically designed interview and assessment tools that will provide valuable insight over a patient's personality. There are currently no laboratory tests that can identify personality disorders. Because the criteria in the DSM-IV are subjective and easily interpretable, some individuals suffering from the disorder may not be diagnosed and vice versa.

People with this disorder usually refuse to admit they have any psychological problem, unless they are going through a life crisis or have considerable issues with interpersonal relationships. The most common form of treatment used by mental health professionals is psychotherapy. This helps the patient to gain insight over his problems and slowly work his way towards correcting his maladaptive behaviors. Medication may be used to treat other problems occurring together with the disorder, such as anxiety or depression.

The outlook for individuals suffering from this disorder is generally positive. Through proper care and long-term psychotherapy treatment, histrionic personality disorder can be significantly corrected or completely cured.

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