Why Do I Crave Attention?

Are you uncomfortable in situations in which you are not the center of attention?

Is your interaction with others often characterized by inappropriate sexually seductive or provocative behavior?

Do you rapidly shift expression of emotions?

Do you consistently use physical appearance to draw attention to self?

Do you have a style of speech that is excessively impressionistic and lacking in detail?

Do you shows self-dramatization and exaggerated expression of emotion?

Are you suggestible (i.e., easily influenced by others or circumstances)?

Do you consider relationships to be more intimate than they actually are?

Based on your answers, you are not likely to have a significant problem with attention-seeking behavior. Seeking attention is a conscious or unconscious attempt to become the center of attention. Usually with the purpose to get validation or admiration from others. There are several factors that can cause this type of behavior. Jealousy may occur when someone does not like the fact that someone else is getting all the attention. The jealous person may show attention-seeking behavior to change the focus. Besides, having low-self esteem and feeling lonely can also cause people to engage in attention-seeking behavior. In more serious cases, attention-seeking behavior can be a sign of a personality disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have a serious problem with craving attention, you are displaying some signs of unhealthy attention-seeking behavior. There may be various reasons for a person to engage in such behavior. Sometimes the person feels overlooked, they may be jealous of a person that gets all the attention, or they feel lonely. If you notice that you frequently show attention-seeking behavior, it may be important to visit your doctor. In worst cases, symptoms can be associated to a personality disorder. If the problems are left unchecked or untreated, the behavior may become harmful.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have a histrionic personality disorder (HOD). People with this disorder feel bad and underappreciated when they are not the center of attention and this results in dramatic and emotional acts. The disorder does not have a devastating impact on the person’s life, most people with this disorder can function successfully in life. The bad news is that they use their great skills to manipulate other people. Psychotherapy is a very effective treatment for HPD. The therapist will teach the patient how to relate with people in a healthy and positive way, without always trying to get their attention.