Which of the following best describes excoriation disorder?

A. Stereotypic movements. Repetitive motor behaviors, such as hand-flapping, rocking, and spinning, are characteristic of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These stereotypic movements serve as self-stimulatory behaviors and may help regulate sensory input.

B. Restricted interest. Individuals with ASD often display intense, fixated interests in specific topics or objects (e.g., an obsession with maps, numbers, or train schedules). These restricted interests are highly focused and often interfere with daily functioning.

C. Social communication deficit. Impaired social interaction and communication are core features of ASD. Affected individuals struggle with understanding social cues, making eye contact, interpreting facial expressions, and engaging in reciprocal conversations.

D. Receptive language dysfunction. While language delays can be present in ASD, receptive language dysfunction (difficulty understanding spoken language) is more characteristic of specific language impairment (SLI) or aphasia rather than ASD. In ASD, deficits in pragmatic (social) communication are more pronounced than in purely receptive language processing.

A. Criminality. Criminal behavior is more characteristic of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) rather than histrionic personality disorder (HPD). Individuals with ASPD display persistent disregard for social norms, often engaging in deception, aggression, and illegal activities. In contrast, those with HPD focus on gaining attention through dramatic and emotionally expressive behavior, not criminal acts.

B. Dramatic. Individuals with HPD exhibit excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviors, often overreacting to minor situations. Their interactions tend to be theatrical, exaggerated, and highly expressive, driven by a deep need for validation. This dramatic presentation can make their emotions seem intense but superficial, affecting personal and professional relationships.

C. Center of attention. A key feature of HPD is the constant desire to be the center of attention, leading to excessive efforts to draw focus in social settings. They may use flirtation, provocative behavior, or exaggerated stories to remain the focal point. If attention shifts away, they may become distressed or act impulsively to regain it, often without considering long-term consequences.

D. Emotionally shallow. Despite their expressive and intense emotional displays, individuals with HPD often lack emotional depth and sincerity. Their emotions can rapidly shift and may seem inconsistent or exaggerated, making it difficult to form genuine, long-lasting relationships. This superficiality often stems from their reliance on external validation rather than internal emotional awareness.