Psychiatry

Last updated on: August 20th, 2020

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Histrionic personality disorder

Clinicals - History

Introduction

Histrionic personality disorder (HBD) falls under cluster B personality disorders. It is characterized by excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. A personality disorder is defined as a collection of fixed, persistent personality traits that cause impaired self-interpersonal function.

Center of attention

People with HPD will impulsively find ways to become the center of attention. Not being the center of attention can cause significant anxiety.

Seductive behavior

People with HPD exhibit overtly seductive behavior in inappropriate settings, such as in the workplace. They may impulsively attempt to seduce people without feeling attracted to them.

Rapidly shifting, shallow emotions

People with HPD tend to show exaggerated, yet shallow displays of emotions that often seem insincere.

Bizarre or flamboyant appearance

People with HPD may adapt a bizarre or excessively flamboyant appearance or style. This is done solely in order to be the center of attention.

Impressionistic speech pattern

People with HPD often speak in a pattern that is overly impressionistic yet lacking in detail. This includes showering an acquaintance with flattering yet non-specific compliments.

Self-dramatization

People with HPD act excessively dramatic and show unreasonable displays of emotions that often seem inappropriate or disingenuous.

Suggestibility

People are with HPD tend to be highly suggestible, meaning that their opinions can easily be influenced by others.

False sense of intimacy

People with HPD tend to overestimate the intimacy of their relationships. This can lead to getting attached to people they don't know very well and feeling rejected.

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