Personality disorders can be complex and often misunderstood, especially when two different disorders share overlapping traits. Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) and Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) are two such disorders that often get confused due to their attention-seeking behaviors and emotional intensity. However, despite these similarities, there are significant differences between the two. Understanding both the commonalities and distinctions can help us better recognize and differentiate between these personality types. Here are 14 key similarities and differences between histrionics and narcissists.
Similarities Between Histrionics and Narcissists
1. Desire for Attention and Admiration
Both histrionics and narcissists crave attention and admiration, and they will go to great lengths to ensure they’re the center of attention. Whether it’s through dramatic gestures, outlandish outfits, or captivating storytelling, they feel validated when others focus on them. This need for attention is a core characteristic of both personality disorders.
2. Superficial Relationships
Histrionics and narcissists often form relationships that are shallow and lack genuine emotional connection. For both, relationships are a means to an end – a way to gain validation, admiration, or attention. They may have many acquaintances but very few deep, meaningful connections.
Related : The 10 Types of Narcissists
3. Manipulative Behaviors
Both personality types can exhibit manipulative behaviors to get what they want. Narcissists may use charm, persuasion, or even intimidation, while histrionics might resort to flirtation, emotional outbursts, or exaggeration. In both cases, the manipulation serves to maintain control over others or to draw attention to themselves.
4. Insecurity and Low Self-Esteem
Despite their outward displays of confidence and self-assuredness, both histrionics and narcissists often struggle with deep-seated insecurities and low self-esteem. They rely on external validation to feel good about themselves, and when that validation is lacking, they can become anxious, upset, or even aggressive.
5. Emotional Intensity
Individuals with HPD and NPD are known for their intense emotional expressions. They may experience emotions more deeply than others or exaggerate their feelings to garner attention and sympathy. This emotional intensity can make their interactions feel unpredictable and overwhelming for those around them.
6. Attention-Seeking Behaviors in Social Settings
Both histrionics and narcissists thrive in social settings where they can be the center of attention. They often engage in attention-seeking behaviors, such as being the loudest in the room, dressing provocatively, or telling grandiose stories. They seek to be admired and validated by others and can become agitated when they feel ignored or overlooked.
7. Sensitivity to Criticism
Histrionics and narcissists are both highly sensitive to criticism or perceived rejection. While they may appear confident or even arrogant, any form of criticism can trigger feelings of inadequacy, leading them to respond with defensiveness, anger, or even withdrawal.
Differences Between Histrionics and Narcissists
8. Motivation for Attention
The primary difference between histrionics and narcissists lies in their motivation for attention. Histrionics seek attention primarily to feel liked, loved, or emotionally connected. They desire to be seen as fun, attractive, or entertaining. Narcissists, on the other hand, seek attention to affirm their sense of superiority, power, and importance. Their need for admiration is rooted in a desire to feel dominant and exceptional.
9. Emotional Expression
Histrionics are known for their overly dramatic and exaggerated emotional expressions. They may cry easily, laugh loudly, or display exaggerated facial expressions. Their emotions can change rapidly and appear theatrical. Narcissists, however, tend to have a more controlled emotional expression. They may display anger, frustration, or even charm, but their emotions are often used strategically to manipulate or achieve their goals.
Related : 9 Common Relationship Stereotypes That We Normalize—But Are Actually Not Okay
10. Interpersonal Relationships
Histrionics crave intimacy and often become overly dependent on others in their relationships. They fear abandonment and may go to great lengths to maintain close bonds, even if they are unhealthy. Narcissists, conversely, prefer to keep others at a distance emotionally. They may have numerous superficial relationships but avoid true vulnerability or intimacy, viewing others primarily as tools for boosting their ego.
11. Response to Rejection
When faced with rejection or criticism, histrionics tend to respond with intense displays of emotion, such as crying, pleading, or dramatic gestures. They may feel devastated and act out in an attempt to regain attention. Narcissists, however, react to rejection with anger, rage, or indifference. They may become vindictive, dismissive, or blame others for their perceived failure.
12. Empathy Levels
Histrionics are more likely to display empathy than narcissists, although their empathy can be inconsistent. They can be warm, affectionate, and concerned with others’ feelings, especially when it serves their desire for connection or attention. Narcissists, on the other hand, are often characterized by a significant lack of empathy. They have difficulty recognizing or caring about the feelings of others and may dismiss or ignore others’ emotional needs.
13. Sense of Self-Worth
Histrionics derive their self-worth from being liked and appreciated by others. They often struggle with feelings of inadequacy and need constant reassurance to feel good about themselves. Narcissists, however, have an inflated sense of self-worth. They believe they are superior to others and often expect special treatment, praise, or recognition, regardless of whether it is deserved.
14. Approach to Sexuality and Flirtation
Histrionics tend to be more openly flirtatious and seductive in their behavior, often using sexuality as a tool to gain attention, approval, or affection. They may dress provocatively, touch others frequently, or engage in sexually suggestive behavior to draw attention to themselves. Narcissists, while they may also be flirtatious, use sexuality more as a means of power, control, or conquest. They may be more selective in their flirtations, focusing on individuals they perceive as high-status or desirable.
Final Thoughts: Understanding the Complexities
While histrionics and narcissists share several traits, the underlying motivations and expressions of these traits can differ significantly. Histrionics are driven by a desire for emotional connection and approval, while narcissists are fueled by a need for admiration and a sense of superiority. Recognizing these similarities and differences can help us better understand the unique challenges and characteristics of each personality disorder.
Understanding these distinctions is not only valuable for those who interact with individuals with these disorders but also for mental health professionals who aim to provide effective treatment and support. Whether it’s a histrionic’s emotional intensity or a narcissist’s need for power, these personality types present fascinating, albeit challenging, dynamics in their interactions with the world.
