Whatever the case, you’re probably wondering how and where this behavior stems from.
Histrionic personality disorder (HPD).
You may start to show signs in your teen years or when you are a young adult.
Michela Buttignol for Verywell Mind/ Getty
People who have HPD are often described as dramatic, flirty, self-centered, and extremelyextroverted.
They may even be callednarcissistic.
Origins and Background
Why is it called histrionic personality disorder?
Typically, this description was stereotypically given to women.
Only then was it added to theDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disordersas a condition and could be diagnosed.
HPD is a bang out of personality disordernamely, acluster B personality disorder.
Besides narcissistic personality disorder and borderline personality disorder, other cluster B personality disorders includeantisocial personality disorder.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
The defining symptoms of HPD are being attention-seeking, dramatic, andhyper-emotional.
This can make rejection very hard to handle.
People with personality disorders hardly seek treatment, she shares.
Diagnosis of HPD is based on the DSM-5 from the American Psychiatric Association.
Since personality continues to evolve, professionals don’t typically diagnose until after age 18.
This is not to say youcan’tget diagnosed, but the process is much more complex.
Experts believe that its likely a combination of influences.
These include genetic factors, early childhood experiences, and environmental impacts.
There are certain factors that may put you at higher risk of having HPD.
HPD can shake up your personal relationships, says Lewis.
Folks with HPD often have issues withconfidenceand identity, too.
Their self-image and self-esteem are often fragile since they depend so much on outside approval, Lewis shares.
Dr. Crain agrees, noting that low self-esteem is one of the cornerstones of HPD.
One area that can be particularly affected by this is romantic relationships, Dr. Crain adds.
Thats because its very difficult to get close to or trust someone who constantlydesires reassuranceand displays attention-seeking behaviors.
There arent any formal treatment plans for HPD, though its typically treated withpsychotherapy.
That said, many people with HPD and their loved ones find relief with therapy.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT) can also be helpful, focusing on managing emotions and improving relationships.
And what about medication?
There are no approved HPD medications.
But its possible to treat some of the symptoms you may experience if you have HDP.
Through therapy, she learned to develop deeper connections and reduce her reliance on external validation.
It was not an easy journey, but it was gratifying for her, says Lewis.
Their behaviors of being overdramatic, attention-seeking,impulsive, and volatile can be off-putting and relationship-ruining.
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