Review on the Present Condition of Histrionic Personality Disorder

Abstract

Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) firstly appeared in DSM II under the name of hysterical personality disorder. It is characterized by exhibitionist behavior, constant attention seeking, rapidly shifting emotions and high suggestibility. Although its current name firstly appeared in the third edition of DSM, little research has been made specifically on this disorder. Low prevalence and high comorbidity with other personality disorders might act as causes for the general lack of interest in this disorder. The presents study offers a multifaceted perspective on HPD, aiming at discussing its historical roots, some of the most important theories that explain its causes, its prevalence and the ways to assess HPD. In addition, its second aim was to present the most important correlates of HPD. Although narrow, previous research offers some support for maintaining HPD as a personality disorder, contrary to some opinions that consider it should be replaced or eliminated from DSM. In conclusion, this paper highlights the current opinions on HPD and offers a look at its implication in the domain of mental health.