Histrionic personality is characterised by dramatic and emotionally exaggerated patterns of behaviour in which the person wants to constantly be the centre of attention and shows a seductive and attractive image to others. It affects more women than men and it is more common in younger people.
The cause of histrionic personality disorder can be related to genetic, biological and environmental factors.
Its symptomatology includes the constant need for attention, the tendency to be susceptible to influence, the need for approval and an emotionally exaggerated expression. People with this disorder can find difficulty maintaining personal stable and satisfactory relationships and that can lead to experience feelings of emptiness and insecurity when not being the centre of attention.
Histrionic personality disorder diagnosis is reached after a complete evaluation of the patient's symptoms and behaviour.
The treatment for this disorder can include psychological therapy, group therapy and, sometimes, medication.
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), American Psychiatric Association, 2013.
- Torgersen S. Epidemiology. In: The Oxford Handbook of Personality Disorders, Widiger TA (Ed), Oxford University Press, New York 2012. p.186.
- Torgersen S. Prevalence, sociodemographics, and functional impairment. In: American Psychiatric Association Publishing Textbook of Personality Disorders, 3rd Ed, Skodol AE, Oldham JM (Eds), American Psychiatric Association Publishing, 2021. p.143
