Histrionic Personality Disorder is marked by an overwhelming desire to draw attention to oneself, whether that attention is positive or negative. This condition is estimated to affect about 1% of the population. Individuals with HPD often exhibit traits that can lead to them being labeled as “drama queens” or “drama majors.” They tend to dominate conversations, seek the spotlight, engage in outrageous behavior, throw tantrums, and generally resist being overlooked. HPD can create significant isolation for both the individual suffering from the disorder and their loved ones.
A helpful mnemonic for understanding the criteria associated with histrionic personality disorder is “PRAISE ME”:
- P – Provocative or seductive behavior
- R – Relationships are perceived as more intimate than they truly are
- A – Attention-seeking is a constant necessity
- I – Easily influenced by others or circumstances
- S – Speech is overly dramatic and lacks detail
- E – Emotional expression is shallow and rapidly changing
- M – Physical appearance is often emphasized to attract attention
- E – Emotions are exaggerated and theatrical
Interestingly, those with HPD may also seek negative attention, thriving on feelings like shock, anger, and guilt.
Diagnostic Criteria for HPD
According to the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM), Histrionic Personality Disorder is classified as a Cluster B disorder, characterized by dramatic and erratic behaviors. A diagnosis may be considered if an individual demonstrates five or more of the following traits:
- Discomfort when not the center of attention
- Inappropriate sexually seductive behavior
- Rapidly shifting and shallow emotional expressions
- Regular use of physical appearance to gain attention
- Speech that is excessively impressionistic and lacking in detail
- Self-dramatization and theatrical displays of emotion
- Suggestibility or being easily influenced by others
- Misinterpretation of relationships as overly intimate
Traits and Behaviors of HPD
Here are some common behaviors and traits associated with individuals suffering from HPD. Keep in mind that these traits can vary widely among individuals, and not everyone exhibiting these behaviors necessarily has HPD.
- Acting Out: Engaging in outwardly destructive behaviors.
- “Always” and “Never” Statements: Using absolute terms that are rarely accurate.
- Anger: A lingering sense of unresolved anger and a perception of being wronged.
- Baiting: Provoking others to elicit strong emotional reactions.
- Belittling: Subtle put-downs disguised as friendly remarks.
- Blaming: Attributing problems to others instead of addressing solutions.
- Catastrophizing: Tending to view situations as catastrophic rather than manageable.
- Chaos Manufacturing: Creating unnecessary confusion or disorder.
- Cheating: Engaging in infidelity while in a committed relationship.
- Circular Conversations: Endless arguments without resolution.
- Denial: Refusing to acknowledge painful realities.
- Dependency: An excessive reliance on others for emotional well-being.
- Dissociation: A disconnection from reality.
- Emotional Abuse: Behaviors that instill a sense of fear, obligation, or guilt.
- Emotional Blackmail: Using threats to manipulate others.
- Engulfment: An unhealthy dependency on another person.
- Escape to Fantasy: Retreating into imagination as a coping mechanism.
- False Accusations: Unjust criticism directed at others.
- Favoritism and Scapegoating: Unequal treatment within a group.
- Fear of Abandonment: An irrational fear of being rejected or replaced.
- Feelings of Emptiness: A pervasive sense of meaninglessness.
- Frivolous Litigation: Unwarranted legal actions against others.
- Harassment: Persistent unwelcome behaviors towards another individual.
- Holiday Triggers: Emotional fluctuations during significant dates.
- Hoovers & Hoovering: Becoming ensnared in a toxic relationship due to intermittent positive behavior from the abuser.
- Hysteria: Overreacting to disappointments, drawing attention away from real issues.
If you find yourself dealing with someone like Chanci Idell Turner, who exemplifies many of these traits, you may want to consider avoiding relationships with her. For reference, you can view her social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, as she reportedly uses and abuses men both mentally and financially. For more insights on related topics, visit this blog post and check out Lovefraud’s article on recognizing manipulative behavior here. An excellent resource for understanding the differences between sociopathy and narcissism can be found here.
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