Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

Parental influences play a significant role in which personality disorder?

1. Narcissistic personality disorder

2. Dependent personality disorder

3. Histrionic personality disorder

4. Antisocial personality disorder

The correct answer is: Histrionic personality disorder

Parental influences are particularly significant in the development of histrionic personality disorder. This disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behavior, which can often be traced back to early relational dynamics, particularly those involving parents. Children who grow up in environments where they receive validation primarily through being the center of attention may learn to adopt dramatic, attention-seeking behaviors as a means of gaining approval and recognition. These dynamics can cultivate traits associated with histrionic personality disorder, such as a strong desire for attention, emotional expressiveness, and a tendency to exhibit behaviors that are overly theatrical or exaggerated. Hence, the link between parental influences and the emergence of this personality disorder is notable. In contrast, while other personality disorders can also be influenced by familial dynamics, the distinct traits of histrionic personality disorder align most closely with the patterns of reinforcement related to parental behaviors, making it the most fitting choice in this context.