WikiJournal Preprints/A Comparative Analysis of Histrionic and Narcissistic Personality Traits Using the Deenz Histrionic Personality Scale and Deenz Narcissistic Personality Scale

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Abstract

This research aims to provide a detailed and comparative analysis of Histrionic Personality (HP) and Narcissistic Personality (NP) traits, utilizing the Deenz Histrionic Personality Scale (DHPS) and the Deenz Narcissistic Personality Scale (DNPS) developed by Deen (2024). Both HP and NP are personality types characterized by an overwhelming desire for attention and admiration, yet they manifest in distinct ways. Individuals with HP often display excessive emotional expressiveness and seek attention through dramatic and sometimes manipulative behaviors, whereas those with NP tend to present an inflated self-image and seek admiration through a sense of superiority. While these two personality types share overlapping features, such as attention-seeking behaviors, the motivations driving these behaviors differ significantly. The study involved 64 participants who completed the computerized versions of the DHPS and DNPS, measuring various facets that define these two personality types. The data analysis focused on comparing the mean scores and standard deviations for each facet, revealing key differences and similarities in traits such as grandiosity, fantasy, entitlement, emotional reactivity, impulsivity, and empathy. Findings from this study suggest that, while both HP and NP individuals exhibit self-centered tendencies, HP traits are more emotionally reactive, driven by a need for validation through dramatic displays of emotion, whereas NP traits reflect a rigid belief in one’s inherent superiority and entitlement to special treatment. The results have significant implications for clinical diagnosis and intervention strategies, as they enhance our understanding of these complex personality structures and their manifestation in real-world behavior. By examining these personality traits in-depth, this study contributes to the development of more effective diagnostic tools and therapeutic approaches tailored to individuals exhibiting characteristics of HP and NP.

1. Introduction

Histrionic Personality (HP) and Narcissistic Personality (NP) are two distinct yet often overlapping personality types that are characterized by patterns of emotional expression, social interactions, and the way individuals seek attention and admiration from others. These personality types are classified as part of the broader category of personality disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5; American Psychiatric Association, 2013), which serves as a critical framework for understanding psychological functioning and diagnosing mental health conditions. While both HP and NP are frequently associated with excessive attention-seeking behavior, the underlying motivations, behaviors, and emotional processes that define each disorder are distinct.

Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) is primarily marked by a pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking. Individuals with HPD are often seen as dramatic, theatrical, and overly expressive, with their emotional responses tending to be exaggerated and out of proportion to the situation at hand (French & Shrestha, 2024). These individuals crave attention and validation, often using their emotional expressions as a means of drawing others’ focus. HPD is typically associated with individuals who demonstrate impulsive behaviors, are sensitive to criticism, and struggle to maintain stable relationships. The intense desire for attention often drives them to seek out situations or relationships where they can be the center of attention, and when they are not the focal point, they may become anxious or distressed (Mitra & Fluyau, 2023).

On the other hand, Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is defined by an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. Narcissistic individuals believe they are unique or special and expect recognition and special treatment based on these beliefs. NPD is often characterized by a pervasive sense of entitlement, a tendency to exploit others for personal gain, and difficulty in recognizing the feelings and needs of others (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). While individuals with NP share the desire for attention with those who exhibit HP traits, their underlying motivations are often more tied to their self-image and an unshakable belief in their own superiority. Narcissistic individuals typically seek admiration and validation, but this is driven by their need to preserve their idealized self-image rather than by a genuine desire for emotional connection or empathy with others (Mitra & Fluyau, 2023).

While both personality disorders exhibit traits that center around attention-seeking behavior, the ways in which these traits manifest and the social, emotional, and cognitive processes that drive them differ significantly. Research into the similarities and differences between these two personality types is essential to further understanding their underlying causes, their impact on interpersonal relationships, and how they can be addressed in clinical practice. Both HPD and NPD can lead to interpersonal difficulties, emotional distress, and challenges in professional and personal contexts.

2. Methodology

This study employs the Deenz Histrionic Personality Scale and Deenz Narcissistic Personality Scale (Deen, 2024) to assess traits associated with both personality types. A total of 64 participants, all adults, completed the computerized version of the scales. Each scale contains specific facets designed to evaluate key behaviors and emotional tendencies that characterize Histrionic and Narcissistic personalities.

The participants' responses were then analyzed to determine significant patterns, including the mean and standard deviation for each trait within both personality constructs. The analysis provided insight into how these two personality types overlap and diverge in terms of emotional responses, behavioral patterns, and interpersonal dynamics.

3. Findings

The data analysis revealed distinct differences between the two personality types, with several patterns emerging from the responses. The participants exhibited clear behavioral and emotional tendencies linked to their respective personality types, which are discussed below.

3.1 Histrionic Personality Facets

Attention-Seeking: Individuals with Histrionic Personality are highly extroverted and driven by a desire to be the center of attention. Their behaviors are often noticeable, as they tend to engage in over-the-top actions to gain the admiration of others. Whether through excessive talking, exaggerated body language, or seeking sympathy, attention-seeking behaviors dominate this personality type. People with this trait are often perceived as overly dramatic or manipulative in their pursuit of the spotlight (Mitra & Fluyau, 2023).

Excessive Emotionality: Histrionic individuals tend to express their emotions in a dramatic and exaggerated way, particularly when seeking attention or sympathy. They may display theatrical reactions to situations, making their emotional responses appear disproportionate. This trait contributes to their need to evoke strong emotional responses from others (French & Shrestha, 2024).

Attention-Seeking: Individuals with Histrionic Personality are highly extroverted and driven by a desire to be the center of attention. Their behaviors are often noticeable, as they tend to engage in over-the-top actions to gain the admiration of others. Whether through excessive talking, exaggerated body language, or seeking sympathy, attention-seeking behaviors dominate this personality type. People with this trait are often perceived as overly dramatic or manipulative in their pursuit of the spotlight (Mitra & Fluyau, 2023).

Excessive Emotionality: Histrionic individuals tend to express their emotions in a dramatic and exaggerated way, particularly when seeking attention or sympathy. They may display theatrical reactions to situations, making their emotional responses appear disproportionate. This trait contributes to their need to evoke strong emotional responses from others (French & Shrestha, 2024).

Hypersensitivity: This facet describes a heightened sensitivity to not being the center of attention. People with Histrionic Personality often feel uneasy or rejected when they are overlooked or criticized. This hypersensitivity can lead to emotional distress or outbursts, further driving their need for validation.

Impulsivity: Impulsive behavior is another significant trait of Histrionic Personality. These individuals act on sudden urges, often without considering long-term consequences. This can lead to reckless or risky decisions in both their personal and professional lives.

Seductive Behavior: Engaging in flirtatious or provocative actions is a common method for individuals with Histrionic Personality to capture attention. Whether intentionally or unconsciously, these behaviors can lead to misunderstandings or discomfort in social settings.

3.2 Narcissistic Personality Facets

Grandiosity: A key feature of Narcissistic Personality is grandiosity, which involves an exaggerated sense of one’s own importance. Individuals with this trait often believe they are superior to others and expect special treatment. They view themselves as exceptional and deserving of admiration (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).

Fantasy: Narcissistic individuals tend to engage in grandiose fantasies about success, power, and attractiveness. These fantasies act as a defense mechanism to protect against feelings of inadequacy and to boost their self-esteem.

Specialness: Narcissistic individuals believe they are unique and often expect to be recognized as such. They want to be seen as special and deserving of admiration, which they may actively seek from others.

Entitlement: A significant trait of Narcissistic Personality is the belief that one deserves special privileges, regardless of whether they’ve earned them. This sense of entitlement can lead to frustration and disappointment when their expectations are not met.

Exploitation: People with Narcissistic Personality often take advantage of others for personal gain. They may manipulate or exploit others without regard for their well-being, seeing them as tools to maintain or enhance their own status.

Lack of Empathy: A hallmark of Narcissistic Personality is the inability to understand or care about others’ emotions or needs. Individuals with this trait are focused solely on their own desires and often show little concern for how their actions affect others.

Envy: Narcissistic individuals may feel envious of others' success and may attempt to undermine or belittle them in order to maintain their own sense of superiority.

Arrogance: Arrogance is another defining trait of Narcissistic Personality. Individuals with this trait often display a dismissive attitude toward others, believing that they are superior and entitled to more than others.

4. Discussion

The findings of this study indicate that while both Histrionic and Narcissistic Personality types exhibit attention-seeking behaviors, the underlying motivations and emotional responses differ. Histrionic individuals tend to express their need for attention through dramatic emotional reactions, whereas Narcissistic individuals seek admiration by promoting their superiority and demanding special treatment. Narcissistic traits are more rigid, self-centered, and associated with a lack of empathy, while Histrionic traits are more reactive, driven by emotional expression, and sometimes impulsive in nature.

These differences suggest that Histrionic individuals are more emotionally driven and often seek emotional validation, whereas Narcissistic individuals are motivated by a desire for status and control over others. Understanding these differences is crucial in diagnosing and treating these personality types, especially in clinical settings.

5. Conclusion

This study provides an in-depth comparison of Histrionic and Narcissistic Personality traits using the Deenz Histrionic Personality Scale and Deenz Narcissistic Personality Scale (Deen, 2024). By analyzing these traits, we gain a clearer understanding of the unique and overlapping characteristics of these personality types. This knowledge can aid in the clinical diagnosis of personality disorders and inform therapeutic interventions, ultimately helping individuals with these traits develop healthier behaviors and interpersonal relationships.

Additional Information

Acknowledgements

No funding was received for this research

Competing Interests

The authors declare no competing interests.

Ethics Statement

The study protocol was reviewed and approved by an independent ethics committee of IGNOU to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines.

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