Histrionic Personality Disorder Diagnostic Criteria

The formal diagnosis of histrionic personality disorder rests on these symptoms, which can be evaluated by psychiatrists and other mental health professionals.

Histrionic Personality Disorder According to the ICD-10

The following information is reproduced verbatim from the ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders, World Health Organization, Geneva, 1992. (Since the WHO updates the overall ICD on a regular basis, individual classifications within it may or may not change from year to year; therefore, you should always check directly with the WHO to be sure of obtaining the latest revision for any particular individual classification.)

F60.4 Histrionic Personality Disorder

Personality disorder characterized by at least 3 of the following:

  1. self-dramatization, theatricality, exaggerated expression of emotions;
  2. suggestibility, easily influenced by others or by circumstances;
  3. shallow and labile affectivity;
  4. continual seeking for excitement, appreciation by others, and activities in which the patient is the centre of attention;
  5. inappropriate seductiveness in appearance or behaviour;
  6. over-concern with physical attractiveness.

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Associated features may include egocentricity, self-indulgence, continuous longing for appreciation, feelings that are easily hurt, and persistent manipulative behaviour to achieve own needs.

Includes:

  • hysterical and psychoinfantile personality (disorder)

Diagnostic Guidelines

Please see the separate set of notes which apply to all personality disorders in the ICD-10 system of classification: ICD Notes Common to the Diagnostic Criteria for Each Personality Disorder.

All clinical material on this site is peer reviewed by one or more qualified mental health professionals. This specific article was originally published by on and was last reviewed or updated by Dr Greg Mulhauser, Managing Editor on .

Our material is not intended as a substitute for direct consultation with a qualified mental health professional. Please seek professional advice if you are experiencing any mental health concern.

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