Home

histrionic

Histrionic is an adjective used to describe things that are overly theatrical or dramatic in character or style. In everyday usage it can refer to behavior that is showy or melodramatic. The term derives from Latin histrionicus, meaning “of an actor.”

In psychiatry, histrionic often appears in reference to histrionic personality disorder (HPD), a diagnosis in the

Prevalence estimates for HPD vary, but it is generally considered relatively uncommon, with figures often cited

Treatment primarily involves psychotherapy, as there is no specific pharmacologic cure for HPD. Psychotherapeutic approaches, including

In general usage, the word “histrionic” describes behavior that is overly dramatic or emotionally charged, sometimes

DSM-5
and
ICD-10.
HPD
denotes
a
pervasive
pattern
of
excessive
emotionality
and
attention
seeking
beginning
in
early
adulthood.
The
condition
is
defined
by
at
least
five
of
the
following:
a
strong
need
to
be
the
center
of
attention;
inappropriate
sexually
provocative
behavior;
rapidly
shifting
and
shallow
expression
of
emotions;
use
of
appearance
to
draw
attention;
speech
that
is
impressionistic
and
lacking
in
detail;
self-dramatization,
theatricality,
and
exaggerated
emotion;
suggestibility;
and
views
of
relationships
as
more
intimate
than
they
are.
around
1-3%
of
the
population.
HPD
is
frequently
comorbid
with
mood
and
anxiety
disorders,
and
other
personality
disorders.
The
disorder
can
be
challenging
to
treat,
in
part
due
to
patterns
of
affect
and
interpersonal
dynamics.
psychodynamic
therapy
and
cognitive-behavioral
therapy,
focus
on
reducing
reliance
on
attention-seeking
behaviors,
improving
emotional
regulation,
and
enhancing
interpersonal
functioning.
Pharmacotherapy
may
be
used
to
address
co-occurring
conditions
such
as
depression
or
anxiety.
used
pejoratively
outside
clinical
contexts.