Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
Definition
Histrionic personality disorder is a condition in which a person acts very emotional and dramatic in order to get attention.
Causes
The cause of this disorder is unknown, but childhood events and genes may both be involved. It occurs more often in women than in men, although it may be more often diagnosed in women because attention-seeking and sexual forwardness are less socially acceptable for women.
Histrionic personality disorder usually begins in early adulthood.
Symptoms
People with this disorder are usually able to function at a high level and can be successful socially and at work.
Symptoms include:
Exams and Tests
The health care provider can diagnose histrionic personality disorder by looking at your:
There is no formal test to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
People with this condition often seek treatment when they experience depression from failed romantic relationships. Medication may be helpful with symptoms such as depression. Professional counseling (psychotherapy) may also help.
Outlook (Prognosis)
Histrionic personality disorder does not usually affect your ability to function at work or in social settings. However, problems often arise in more intimate relationships, where there are deeper involvements.
Possible Complications
Histrionic personality disorder may affect your social or romantic relationships, or ability to cope with losses or failures. You may go through many job changes, as you become easily bored and have trouble dealing with frustration.
Because you tend to crave new things and excitement, you may put yourself in risky situations. All of these factors may lead to a greater risk of depression.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you think you may have symptoms of histrionic personality disorder, especially if it is affecting your sense of well-being, your relationships, or your ability to keep a job.
Prevention
Mental health treatment may help you learn better ways of understanding and dealing with your needs.
Update Date: 2/6/2008 Updated by: Christos Ballas, M.D., Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Home | Health Topics | Drugs & Supplements | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Disclaimers | Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Quality Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 25 September 2008 |