Alternative Names HPD, hystrionic personality disorder
Definition A person with histrionic personality disorder constantly seeks attention and behaves dramatically. Emotions often seem exaggerated, childish, and false. This is done to get sympathy or attention from others.
What is going on in the body? Histrionic personality disorder is a pattern of excessive emotionalism and attention seeking. The person with this disorder is usually immature. He or she is dependent on others, is self-centered, and often vain. The person's behaviour is intended to gain attention. The person may not even be aware of the abnormal behaviour.
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition? A person with histrionic personality disorder:
is uncomfortable in situations in which he or she is not the centre of attention
acts in a sexually seductive or provocative way
has exaggerated emotions
uses his or her physical appearance to draw attention
is easily influenced by others
is constantly seeking reassurance or approval from others
is sensitive to criticism or disapproval
considers relationships to be more intimate than they actually are
What are the causes and risks of the condition? The cause of histrionic personality disorder is unknown. It may be that learned and inherited traits play a role. The disorder is more common in women than in men.
What can be done to prevent the condition? There is no known prevention for histrionic personality disorder.
How is the condition diagnosed? Diagnosis of histrionic personality disorder is usually made based on the pattern of symptoms. A full physical examination should be done to rule out physical causes. Psychological testing is sometimes used to help make the diagnosis.
What are the long-term effects of the condition? A person with histrionic personality disorder tends to have stormy, and often unsuccessful, relationships. The person may threaten or attempt suicide. Alcohol abuse and drug abuse are also common.
What are the risks to others? Histrionic personality disorder is not contagious. However, relationships with others are affected by the disorder.
What are the treatments for the condition? Psychological treatments have been shown to be effective in the treatment of histrionic personality disorder. These include cognitive behavioural therapy, group therapy, and individual psychotherapy. Treatment is aimed at:
helping the person relate to others in ways that are more acceptable
improving the person's communication skills
increasing the person's self-esteem
relearning interaction and thought
The person may be impulsive, depressed, and have wide mood swings. Certain medications can help reduce these symptoms. Medication is used only when the person is also getting counselling. In some cases, when the person is in crisis, a short-term stay in the hospital helps to stabilise the person. This may be necessary, for instance, if the person is threatening suicide, self-mutilation, or other serious behaviours.
What are the side effects of the treatments? Side effects are specific to the medication used, and may include drowsiness and allergic reactions.
What happens after treatment for the condition? A person who is successfully treated for histrionic personality disorder is usually able to function at a high level. He or she will usually be appropriate in social and work situations.
How is the condition monitored? A person on antidepressant medications needs to be monitored frequently for side effects. Blood tests are done to be sure that the medication levels are adequate. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.
Author: Ann Reyes, Ph.D. Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr John Hearne Last Updated: 19/06/2005 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
