Personality disorders alter the way a person think, acts, perceives, and relates to others – between 1% and 3% of the U.S. population is said to experience histrionic personality disorder (HPD) throughout their lifetime. Psych Central states that HPD is characterized by “a long-standing pattern of attention seeking behavior and extreme emotionality”. Individuals with this disorder often desire to be the center of attention in any event, and they may feel uncomfortable when not in the spotlight. People with this disorder may be considered “shallow”, “dramatic” and sometimes “provocative”, as some will engage in sexually promiscuous behaviors to gain attention.
Individuals with HPD are often hyper-focused on their physical appearance and believe that relationships with others are closer than they truly are. It is only when symptoms of HPD cause significant distress in a person’s life that it is considered a personality disorder. The following celebrities have been assumed to have HPD, based on their symptoms from health resources:
- Megan Fox
- Jessica Simpson
- Kim Kardashian
- Miley Cyrus
- Kanye West
Most of these celebrities have been pinned for HPD because of their risk-taking when it comes to capturing people’s attention, whether through appearance, dramatic events or opinions. HPD individuals are often considered highly emotional, charming, manipulative, seductive, demanding, energetic, and impulsive. They may constantly be engaging in some form of drama, they may flirt and talk very loudly, tell stories in very exaggerated ways, dress seductively, interrupt conversations to bring the focus back to the self, and play the role of a “victim” or “princess”. What causes this disorder?
Research is still being conducted to determine the exact causes of this disorder, but many believe that genetic predisposition and environmental factors can influence the development. Treatment for HPD is available, with many going through psychodynamic therapy, a form of therapy that helps the client uncover the unconscious element of their psyche.
If histrionic personality disorder is significantly affecting your life, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today.