histronic vs dependent personality disorder

[MystikBliss]

hey guys, does anyone know how to definitively tell the difference btwn histronic and dependent disorders? both personalities seem excessively dependent with low self-esteem and emotional instability.

so what is a key difference(s) that we may see that would separate the 2?

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[doctorFred]

hey guys, does anyone know how to definitively tell the difference btwn histronic and dependent disorders? both personalities seem excessively dependent with low self-esteem and emotional instability.

so what is a key difference(s) that we may see that would separate the 2?

histrionics have a tendency to view all of the relationships around them as deep and meaningful, even if in reality, they barely know the other person. on step 1 question stems, they are usually acting quite flirtatious as well.

 

[tfom08]

and dressed like a hooker

 

[GynGuy1983]

I like to differentiate the two as someone that is dependent is needy and is constantly looking for reassurance and the person that is histrionic is more of an entertainer doing crazy things to get your attention like dressing provocatively or being hypersexual. People that are histrionic are usually very charming and aren't as reserved as people that are dependent.

 

[rox]

Histrionic: can't maintain intimate relationships(very characteristic) + dramatic presentation of symptoms.

Dependent: can't make decisions of their own, low self-esteem.

Honestly, I can't see any common characteristic between those two PD's.

 

[MystikBliss]

okay thanks guys. i can see the difference now. i guess i just read an explanation that wasn't great and got all confused.

 

[PeepshowJohnny]

Another way to differentiate them is how they react to insults.

A histrionic person will make a big dramatic "HOW DARE YOU?!?" song and dance, but will, usually, reconcile in an equally flamboyant fashion.

A dependent person will see the problem as being in themself and trying to make amends (fear that the insult may mean they're being abandoned)

Narcisists respond equally as forecefully as a histrionic, but they tend to hold grudges.