From the Research
Treatment for histrionic personality disorder primarily involves psychotherapy, with clarification-oriented psychotherapy being a promising approach, as shown in a recent study 1. This type of therapy helps patients identify and change problematic thought patterns and behaviors, while developing healthier coping mechanisms and interpersonal skills. The study published in 2023 in the journal Clinical psychology & psychotherapy found that improvements in relationship processes of patients and therapists were systematically related to outcome, highlighting the importance of the therapeutic relationship in treating histrionic personality disorder 1. Other forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy, may also be beneficial, as they help individuals understand unconscious motivations behind their attention-seeking behaviors and develop more adaptive ways of interacting with others. Some key points to consider in the treatment of histrionic personality disorder include:
- The importance of establishing a strong therapeutic relationship, as this can have a significant impact on treatment outcomes 1
- The use of clarification-oriented psychotherapy, which has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms and relationship processes in patients with histrionic personality disorder 1
- The potential benefits of CBT and psychodynamic therapy in helping individuals understand and change problematic thought patterns and behaviors
- The need for long-term treatment, often spanning several years, with frequency decreasing as symptoms improve
- The importance of family therapy in educating loved ones about the disorder and improving relationship dynamics
- The use of medications, such as SSRIs and low-dose antipsychotics, to manage specific symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation, although these should be used with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.