Psychiatric Teaching Interview. Hysterical Personality

See also “Hysteria: The Disturbing History“ HYSTERICAL PERSONALITY DISORDER is no longer a part of the DSM, but it was in the 60s. From DSM-II: 301.5 Hysterical personality (Histrionic personality disorder): These behavior patterns are characterized by excitability, emotional instability, over-reactivity, and self-dramatization. This self-dramatization is always attention-seeking and often seductive, whether or not the patient is aware of its purpose. These personalities are also immature, self-centered, often vain, and usually dependent on others. This disorder must be differentiated from Hysterical Neurosis The accompanying case summary: This is a married 27 year old woman. Notice how she usually averts her gaze downward, and her affected attitude in smoking. She has an air of indifference, yet there is a provocative manner about her. Her dress is casual, her hair is well coiffeured, and she frequently makes veiled comments in interview and tries to lead t