Another ‘new one for the books’

By Liz Lockhart

‘Histrionic Personality Disorder’ has now been recognised as a mental health disorder, according to the American PsychiatricAssociation, the condition can be defined as:

‘A pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention seeking, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts.’

According to the APA this disorder is diagnosed by identifying at least five of the following behaviours-

Is uncomfortable in situations in which he or she is not the center of attention
Interaction with others is often characterized by inappropriate sexually seductive or provocative behaviour
Displays rapidly shifting and shallow expression of emotions
Consistently uses physical appearance to draw attention to self
Has a style of speech that is excessively impressionistic and lacking in detail
Shows self-dramatisation, theatricality, and exaggerated expression of emotion
Is suggestible, i.e., easily influenced by others or circumstances
Considers relationships to be more intimate than they actually are

Our editor Charlotte Fantelli comments 'I am really not sure what to say about this disorder, who am I to comment on the APA's decisions or definitions? All I wonder is where do we draw the line between a serious medical condition that legitimately demands help and resources, and a self centered person who not only get's to be the center of their own universe, but can now have counselling, sit talking to therapists about themselves while getting sympathy for their selfishness?'

We are living in a more and more self centred world, fame and celebrity are celebrated and most people are out for themselves, lets just hope that those with important mental health conditions whatever they are entitled or defined as get the help they deserve.