What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• HPD (Histrionic Personality Disorder)

What is Histrionic Personality Disorder? (Definition/ Background Information)

• Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) falls into the category of dramatic personality disorders, which are disorders that result in extreme and unpredictable emotions as well as a distorted self-image
• In this disorder, individuals behave in dramatic and emotional ways to draw attention to themselves, as they feel an overwhelming need to be the center of attention
• The cause of this disorder is generally unknown. However, individuals may develop Histrionic Personality Disorder due to a combination of biological and environmental factors
• Sporadic emotions, being easily influenced by others, and self-centeredness are among a few of the common signs and symptoms of Histrionic Personality Disorder. But, nevertheless, individuals with HPD retain a high level of function, both intellectually and socially, despite their symptoms
• The treatment for Histrionic Personality Disorder involves both psychotherapy and medication. However, the prognosis varies based on the signs and symptoms present in an individual. Generally, individuals with a steady treatment plan and good support from family and friends are able to lead a healthy life

Who gets Histrionic Personality Disorder? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Histrionic Personality Disorder is reportedly diagnosed in about 1.8% of the general population
• Females are more likely to be affected by this disorder than males 
• Symptoms may manifest as early as during teenage or young adult years
• Histrionic Personality Disorder is prevalent among all racial and ethnic groups

What are the Risk Factors for Histrionic Personality Disorder? (Predisposing Factors)

The following factors may increase the risk for Histrionic Personality Disorder:

• Genetic predisposition:
  • Family history of personality disorders or other mental illnesses: Individuals with Histrionic Personality Disorder are often known to have older family members with the condition as well
  • Being diagnosed with childhood conduct disorder (a condition that is characterized by aggressive behavior and disregard for others)
• Pervasive trauma in childhood such as unstable childhood life (abuse, violence, etc.)

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Histrionic Personality Disorder? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Histrionic Personality Disorder has not been identified. However, genetic predispositions and adverse childhood events may increase the chance for developing Histrionic Personality Disorder.

• Biological factors: Individuals are more likely to develop Histrionic Personality Disorder if they have a family history of mental illness, which may suggest a genetic predisposition
• Environmental factors:
  • Learned behavior from family members with previous history of the disorder
  • A lack of criticism and unpredictable reinforcement and attention during childhood
  • Unstable family relationships
  • Traumatic life experiences in childhood or early adulthood

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Histrionic Personality Disorder?

The signs and symptoms of Histrionic Personality Disorder may vary in type and severity among affected individuals, and may include:

• Self-centeredness
  • Overwhelming need to be the center of attention
  • Discomfort when ignored or left unnoticed
  • Overly concerned with self-image
• Sexual promiscuity: Display of provocative appearance or behavior at inappropriate times
• Shifting emotions: Shallow expression of rapidly changing emotions
• Prioritizing physical appearance: Consistently using physical appearance to draw attention 
• Strong speech style
  • Lack of detail in speech
  • Speech to appease others
  • Speaking strong bold points, but unable to provide reasoning with facts or details
• Dramatic behavior: Exaggerated emotions and behavior to gain sympathy and attention
• Suggestibility: Easily influenced by other individuals or circumstances 
• Overestimation of intimacy: Amplified feeling of intimacy in relationships
• Sensitivity to criticism:
  • Inability to handle disapproval and criticism
  • Blaming failure on others

Although individuals with Histrionic Personality Disorder may display uncharacteristic behaviors due to their disorder, they are still able to retain a high level of function both intellectually and socially.

How is Histrionic Personality Disorder Diagnosed?

Histrionic Personality Disorder may be difficult to diagnose due to its similarity to many other disorders, as well as its common occurrence simultaneously with other personality disorders. A diagnosis of Histrionic Personality Disorder may be made by:

• Physical examination 
• Complete personal and family medical history, including any substance use or abuse 
• Psychiatric evaluation to determine severity of the signs and symptoms 
• Assessment of signs and symptoms based on the criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM-5)

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Histrionic Personality Disorder?

Histrionic Personality Disorder can lead to the following complications:

• Difficulty in maintaining social and romantic relationships
• Higher likelihood of abuse and manipulation
• Higher likelihood of being diagnosed with depression

How is Histrionic Personality Disorder Treated?

Treatment for Histrionic Personality Disorder may be a challenging process, as affected individuals may exaggerate their symptoms, or disregard boundaries set by their therapist. Due to these difficulties, treatment should be solution-focused, using the following methods:

• Psychotherapy, to treat the disorder by getting to the root of the problem
• Medications, to treat depression and anxiety, if any present

How can Histrionic Personality Disorder be Prevented?

Presently, there are no methods or guidelines available to prevent the onset of Histrionic Personality Disorder. However, the following factors may aid in slowing down its progression:

• Early diagnosis of the condition, once signs and symptoms are displayed
• Seeking professional help following trauma in one’s childhood phase, as it is a common risk factor for this disorder

What is the Prognosis of Histrionic Personality Disorder? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) is determined by the severity of each individual’s signs and symptoms. 

• Some individuals with Histrionic Personality Disorder manage to function at high levels in their social and occupational lives, leading to a good prognosis
• Individuals diagnosed with a combination of other personality disorders along with HPD may require a longer course of treatment
• With proper adherence to treatment, the affected individuals may be able to lead a normal/regular life. However, if the condition is left untreated, it may greatly affect one’s quality of life, causing high levels of stress that may result in the development of depression and anxiety

Additions and Relevant Useful Information for Histrionic Personality Disorder:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

http://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/major-depression/