Histrionic personality disorder is characterized by a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking, including an excessive need for approval, egocentricity, self-indulgence, continuous longing for appreciation, feelings that are easily hurt, and persistent manipulative behavior to achieve their own needs.
- P - provocative (or seductive) behavior
- R - relationships, considered more intimate than they are
- A - attention, must be at center of
- I - influenced easily
- S - speech (style) - wants to impress, lacks detail
- E - emotional lability, shallowness
- M - make-up - physical appearance used to draw attention to self
- E - exaggerated emotions - theatrical
Additional symptoms include:
- Exhibitionist behavior.
- Constant seeking of reassurance or approval.
- Excessive dramatics with exaggerated displays of emotions.
- Excessive sensitivity to criticism or disapproval.
- Inappropriately seductive appearance or behavior.
- Excessive concern with physical appearance.
- A need to be the center of attention.
- Low tolerance for frustration or delayed gratification.
- Rapidly shifting emotional states that may appear superficial or exaggerated to others.
- Tendency to believe that relationships are more intimate than they actually are.
- Making rash decisions.
