Which of the following behaviors is characteristic of Histrionic Personality Disorder?

Which of the following behaviors is characteristic of Histrionic Personality Disorder?

• A. Idealization and devaluation of relationships
• B. Need for excessive admiration
• C. Dramatic and theatrical interactions
• D. Isolation due to fear of ridicule

Answer: (C)

Dramatic and theatrical interactions are a hallmark of Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD). Individuals with HPD often exhibit an exaggerated emotionality and a pervasive pattern of attention-seeking behavior. This is manifested in their interactions, where they may display strong emotions, engage in flamboyant gestures, and actively seek to be the center of attention. Such behaviors can make their interactions seem more performance-like, as they often emphasize their physical appearance and may utilize provocative or dramatic presentations to captivate others. In contrast, the other behaviors listed are more indicative of different personality disorders. For instance, the need for excessive admiration aligns more closely with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, where individuals typically seek constant validation and admiration from others. Idealization and devaluation of relationships occur notably in Borderline Personality Disorder, reflecting unstable interpersonal relationships. Lastly, isolation due to fear of ridicule can be associated with Avoidant Personality Disorder, where a person may withdraw from social interactions due to anxiety and fear of negative evaluation. Thus, the correct choice distinctly relates to the core attributes of Histrionic Personality Disorder.

Dramatic and theatrical interactions are a hallmark of Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD). Individuals with HPD often exhibit an exaggerated emotionality and a pervasive pattern of attention-seeking behavior. This is manifested in their interactions, where they may display strong emotions, engage in flamboyant gestures, and actively seek to be the center of attention. Such behaviors can make their interactions seem more performance-like, as they often emphasize their physical appearance and may utilize provocative or dramatic presentations to captivate others.

In contrast, the other behaviors listed are more indicative of different personality disorders. For instance, the need for excessive admiration aligns more closely with Narcissistic Personality Disorder, where individuals typically seek constant validation and admiration from others. Idealization and devaluation of relationships occur notably in Borderline Personality Disorder, reflecting unstable interpersonal relationships. Lastly, isolation due to fear of ridicule can be associated with Avoidant Personality Disorder, where a person may withdraw from social interactions due to anxiety and fear of negative evaluation. Thus, the correct choice distinctly relates to the core attributes of Histrionic Personality Disorder.