PLEASE FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW 4 REFERENCES TOPIC: Histrionic Personality Disorder Personality disorders occur in 10–20% of the population. They are difficult to treat as individuals with personality disorders are less likely to seek help than individuals with other mental health disorders. Treatment can be challenging as they do not see their symptoms as painful to themselves or others. In this Discussion, you will explore personality disorders in greater detail and discuss treatment options using evidence-based research. To prepare for this Discussion:
Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) is one of the ten recognized personality disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). It is characterized by a pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals with HPD tend to be dramatic, flamboyant, and seductive, seeking constant validation and admiration from others. This disorder affects about 1-3% of the population, with higher prevalence in women than men (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).
Personality disorders are often difficult to treat due to the unique characteristics and challenges they present. Individuals with personality disorders are less likely to seek help compared to individuals with other mental health disorders (Silberschmidt & Silver, 2001). They often lack insight into their own problems and may even perceive their symptoms as normal or desirable. Additionally, individuals with HPD may have a tendency to resist treatment and have difficulties forming a therapeutic alliance due to their need for attention and validation (Ronningstam, 2011).
The treatment of HPD typically involves a multimodal approach that includes psychotherapy, medication management, and social support. Evidence-based research suggests that psychotherapy is the mainstay of treatment for personality disorders, including HPD (Leichsenring et al., 2011). Various forms of psychotherapy have shown efficacy in treating HPD, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring and resolving unconscious conflicts and unresolved childhood issues. It aims to provide insight into the underlying causes of the individual’s histrionic behaviors and help them develop healthier coping mechanisms (Tedstone Doherty & Pincus, 2005). This therapy often involves a long-term commitment and may require frequent sessions over an extended period of time.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) aims to identify and modify maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. It helps individuals become aware of their patterns of attention-seeking behavior and teaches them new ways to interact with others (Ronningstam, 2011). CBT can also address underlying core beliefs and schemas that contribute to the development and maintenance of histrionic behaviors.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a treatment modality originally developed for borderline personality disorder but has shown promising results in treating HPD as well (Soler et al., 2012). DBT combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with mindfulness and acceptance-based techniques. It helps individuals develop skills for emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
While medication is not the primary treatment for HPD, it can be used adjunctively to target specific symptoms or co-occurring psychiatric conditions. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants may be prescribed to alleviate depressive symptoms that often co-occur with HPD (Leichsenring et al., 2011). However, medication management alone is rarely sufficient and should be combined with psychotherapy for optimal outcomes.
In addition to professional treatment, social support and involvement in support groups can be beneficial for individuals with HPD. Support groups provide a sense of belonging, validation, and a platform for sharing experiences and coping strategies with others who have similar challenges (Leichsenring et al., 2011).
In conclusion, the treatment of Histrionic Personality Disorder requires a multimodal approach that includes psychotherapy, medication management, and social support. Psychotherapy, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy, has shown efficacy in treating HPD. Medication can be used adjunctively to target specific symptoms or co-occurring psychiatric conditions. Social support and involvement in support groups are also beneficial for individuals with HPD. It is important for clinicians to consider the unique characteristics and challenges of HPD when developing a comprehensive treatment plan.