Definition:

A personality disorder characterized by

a pattern of exaggerated emotions and

attention-seeking behavior, including an

excessive need for approval and

inappropriate seductiveness, usually

beginning in early adulthood

Symptoms:

Attention Seeking, Need for Approval

Attention Seeking

Make Very Rash Decisions

Rash Decisions

Dress/Act Provocatively

Dress Provocatively

Be Excessively Sensitive to Criticism or

Disapproval

Sensitive to Criticism

Rarely Show Concern for Others

No Concern for Others

Seductive or Flirtatious Behavior

Flirtatious Behavior

Causes:

The exact cause is not known. It is not

proven to run in the family, as children

could just be repeating observed

behavior.

Other Environmental Factors

Include:

• Lack of criticism or punishment as child

• Positive feedback given only when

certain tasks are completed

• Unpredictable attention given by parent

• General confusion about what kinds

of behavior earn parental approval

Percent Occurrence:

The prevalence of HPD in the general

population is approximately 2-3%

Related Pathologies:

HPD has been associated with

alcoholism and with higher rates of

conversion disorder and depression.

Narcissism, anti-social and dependant

behavior often occur with HPD

Treatment:

People with HPD don’t think they need treatment, making it difficult. The most common method is psychotherapy. This treatment helps patients uncover their motivations and fears behind their actions, and helps them relate to others in a more positive way. The alternative method of meditation is also used to treat depression and anxiety that may come with HPD.

Other Methods Include:

• Group Therapy

• Group Role Play

• Family Therapy

• Prescribed Antidepressants

Case Study:

Marsha, Female, 56

Diagnosed with HPD. Marsha uses

many tactics to draw people’s attention.

For women, Marsha finds a problem she

can complain about. For men, she flirts

excessively. Marsha has been married

and divorced four times, because all her

husbands thought she flirted too much.

Little did they know she had HPD.

Sources:

http://www.webmd.com/mental-

health/histrionic-personality-disorder

http://www.minddisorders.com/flu-

inv/histrionic-personality-disorder.html

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/histrionic-

patient-case-study.html