They will work hard to get others to pay attention to them, possibly as a method of testing the stability of relationships. They may enjoy situations in which they can be the center of attention, and may feel uncomfortable when people are not paying attention to them. It is common for people with this disorder to wear flamboyant clothing, try body modifications, and fake medical conditions in an attempt to draw others attention. They may display inappropriately sexually provocative, flirtatious, or exploitative behavior. Sexting and exhibitionist behavior are also behaviors people with this condition sometimes exhibit. Some people with histrionic traits or personality disorder change their seduction technique into a more maternal or paternal style as they age. When their desire for attention is not met, it can heighten the severity of their symptoms. They tend to be impressionable and easily manipulatable, especially by those they respect.Patients with HPD are usually high-functioning, both socially and professionally. They usually have good social skills, despite tending to use them to make themselves the center of attention. HPD may also affect a persons social and romantic relationships, as well as their ability to cope with losses or failures. People with HPD tend to consider relationships closer than they usually are. They may seek treatment for clinical depression when romantic (or other close personal) relationships end. Substance disorders, such as Alcohol Use Disorder or Opioid use disorder, are all common in patients with Histrionic Personality Disorder. They are also at higher risks of suicide, body dysmorphia, and divorce.
DSM 5
The current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, DSM 5, defines histrionic personality disorder (in Cluster B) as:
A pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following:
is uncomfortable in situations in which he or she is not the center of attention
interaction with others is often characterized by inappropriate sexually seductive or provocative behavior
displays rapidly shifting and shallow expression of emotions
consistently uses physical appearance to draw attention to self
has a style of speech that is excessively impressionistic and lacking in detail
shows self-dramatization, theatricality, and exaggerated expression of emotion
is suggestible, i.e., easily influenced by others or circumstances
considers relationships to be more intimate than they actually are
The DSM 5 requires that a diagnosis for any specific personality disorder also satisfies a set of general personality disorder criteria. ICD-10
The World Health Organizations ICD-10 lists histrionic personality disorder as:
A personality disorder characterized by:
shallow and labile affectivity,
self-dramatization,
theatricality,
exaggerated expression of emotions,
suggestibility,
egocentricity,
self-indulgence,
lack of consideration for others,
easily hurt feelings, and
continuous seeking for appreciation, excitement and attention. It is a requirement of ICD-10 that a diagnosis of any specific personality disorder also satisfies a set of general personality disorder criteria. Comorbidity
Most histrionics also have other mental disorders. Comorbid conditions include: antisocial, dependent, borderline, and narcissistic personality disorders, as well as depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, somatoform disorders, anorexia nervosa, substance use disorder and attachment disorders, including reactive attachment disorder. Millons subtypes
Theodore Millon identified six subtypes of histrionic personality disorder.