Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a personality disorder that is characterized by overly animated and attention-seeking behaviors. Those with HPD are described as seductive, flirtatious, self-indulgent, and “dramatic.” They must be the center of attention at all times, and if they are not, they will make it about them. Many everyday people have these symptoms and are able to function normally without being diagnosed with a personality disorder. It has to be long-term and prevent an individual from performing their daily duties in order to be a disorder.
What Is the Cause?
Although there are no common causes of HPD, it can originate from childhood and/or genetics. However, HPD is traced back to Greek and Roman times. Physicians observed individuals with theatrical characteristics and emotional expressions, which were considered feminine traits. These individuals were classified as ‘hysterical”, deriving from the Greek word hysteria, and defined as the disturbances of the uterus.
However, in the late 19th century, Sigmund Freud proposed the concept of “hysteria.” He conceptualized it as a psychological disorder amongst women during the era of psychoanalysis. While controversial, Freud’s work laid out the blueprint for exploring histrionic symptoms and behaviors.
What Type of Personality Disorder Is HPD?
There are 10 different personality disorders, and HPD falls under the Cluster B category. Cluster B includes personality disorders that involve dramatic and emotional thoughts and behaviors that alternate. HPD is defined as “a person who is dramatic, has strong emotions, and always wants attention from others.” An individual with HPD can seem highly dramatic, excitable, and impulsive. While it has been proven to show more in women than men, men can still have an HPD diagnosis.
The main symptoms of HPD are as follows:
- speaking vaguely, lacking detail
- constantly seeking attention
- showing emotions that appear shallow and change rapidly
- being uncomfortable in situations where they are not the center of attention
People with personality disorders do not realize that they have a problem. In their eyes, their actions are completely normal, and other people are the problem. It is not until they are diagnosed with another mental illness. In some cases, a family member or a social agency might persuade an individual with HPD to get help.
Ways to Treat HPD
The main form of therapy when diagnosed with a personality disorder is psychotherapy. Also known as talk therapy, talking to a certified professional can help you understand the need to be the main character stems from.
Although there is often little to no treatment for symptoms, there are ongoing debates on the factors that lead to HPD. Individuals exhibit traits such as:
- Harm avoidance
- Novelty seeking
- Reward Dependence
- Persistence
An individual can feel as if their life is inferior compared to others, hence the need to be the main character. However, life does not work that way. At Renaissance Ranch, we provide comprehensive care to help individuals address HPB. Our services include psychotherapy and other forms of treatment; our foundation is our faith.
Becoming faith-based can be the ultimate elimination of debilitating histrionic symptoms. Seeking the attention of God versus seeking the attention of the world can alter your brain chemistry for the better. Meditating on God’s word can fulfill the desire that comes from being seductive and too dramatic. In fact, the longer you continue your spiritual and faith journey, the wider your eyes will open.
God promises everlasting life as long as you live in His likeness and acknowledge Him in everything. If you are not Christian or a non-believer, still believing in some higher power or fact can keep you going. The fact remains that having faith can alleviate the stress that comes from needing to outshine everyone.
Where You Can Go For Help
Thankfully, you can get help from our compassionate team at Renaissance Ranch. There are options for on-site and intensive outpatient treatment for personality and mental disorders. Our goal is to build connections with patients and alumni to keep their heads up. In the midst of trials, it can feel like we are calling out to deaf ears.
However, it is important to know that this team will provide a way toward a healthier, fulfilling life. You are the author of your story, and if you have a personality disorder, that does not deter it. In fact, it adds more depth to your character and reaffirms that you can ask for help when needed. Seeking validation from the world will only leave you empty. Thus, seeking God and His kingdom will leave you fulfilled and satisfied. God created you in His image, and His image is perfect. That means you are perfect even with all of your imperfections. The imperfections you carry make you shine enough already.
Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a continuing study for symptoms, behaviors, and treatments. The symptoms can exist in everyday people which makes it difficult to pinpoint those with the chronic, long-lasting disorder. People who can normally go about their day can be dramatic, theatrical, or overly sexual. However, those who suffer from HPD have thoughts and behaviors that are unhealthy and inflexible. Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, is the most common way HPD can be treated. Medication can also relieve certain symptoms including anxiety and mood swings. While there are no treatment options for other HPD symptoms, talking to someone can alleviate most of them. If you or a loved one suffers from HPD, please call (801) 308-8898.