What characterizes histrionic personality disorder?

What characterizes histrionic personality disorder?

• A. A pervasive inclination to dissociate from emotional experiences
• B. A tendency towards excessive emotionality and attention seeking
• C. A focus on rational thought and analytical behavior
• D. Minimal interest in social interactions

Answer: (B)

Histrionic personality disorder is primarily characterized by a tendency towards excessive emotionality and attention seeking. Individuals with this disorder often display incredibly theatrical behaviors, seeking to be the center of attention in social situations. They may use their physical appearance to draw attention and may exhibit rapidly shifting emotions that can seem shallow to others. This constant need for approval and attention can often lead to difficulties in their relationships and self-image. The other options present traits that do not align with the core characteristics of histrionic personality disorder. Dissociative tendencies and minimal interest in social interactions are not indicative of this disorder, as those with histrionic personality typically crave social engagement. Furthermore, a focus on rational thought and analytical behavior contrasts sharply with the emotional volatility that defines the disorder. Thus, the emphasis on emotional expression and the desire for recognition are central to understanding histrionic personality disorder.

Histrionic personality disorder is primarily characterized by a tendency towards excessive emotionality and attention seeking. Individuals with this disorder often display incredibly theatrical behaviors, seeking to be the center of attention in social situations. They may use their physical appearance to draw attention and may exhibit rapidly shifting emotions that can seem shallow to others. This constant need for approval and attention can often lead to difficulties in their relationships and self-image.

The other options present traits that do not align with the core characteristics of histrionic personality disorder. Dissociative tendencies and minimal interest in social interactions are not indicative of this disorder, as those with histrionic personality typically crave social engagement. Furthermore, a focus on rational thought and analytical behavior contrasts sharply with the emotional volatility that defines the disorder. Thus, the emphasis on emotional expression and the desire for recognition are central to understanding histrionic personality disorder.