Rosh Psychiatry Board Practice Exam

Which behavior indicates a diagnosis in a woman who captivates patients with dramatic storytelling?

1. Generalized anxiety disorder

2. Histrionic personality disorder

3. Borderline personality disorder

4. Dependent personality disorder

The correct answer is: Histrionic personality disorder

The behavior of captivating patients with dramatic storytelling is indicative of histrionic personality disorder. This disorder is characterized by a persistent pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior. Individuals with histrionic personality disorder often engage in theatrical and exaggerated expressions of emotion and may employ attention-seeking tactics, such as dramatic storytelling, to be the center of attention. Their stories are often embellished, theatrical, and designed to evoke emotional responses from others, which aligns with the behavior described in the question. The emphasis on drama and the need for approval and reassurance from others is central to this personality disorder. This tendency to captivate and entertain can mask deeper insecurities and a need for validation. In contrast, the other personality disorders listed do not typically involve this specific attention-seeking behavior through dramatic storytelling. Generalized anxiety disorder, for example, is primarily characterized by excessive worry and anxiety rather than a need to captivate others. Borderline personality disorder involves emotional instability and intense interpersonal relationships but does not specifically highlight the dramatic storytelling aspect. Dependent personality disorder is marked by a pervasive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behaviors, rather than dramatic presentation. Thus, the correct answer effectively captures the essence of histrionic personality