How to differentiate between a histrionic personality and a narcissistic personality

Question

HPD vs NPD

Answer 1

histrionic personality is someone who is like drama. if they stub their toe, they act like they need 20 stitches and it's now a life-threatening condition. a narcissist loves themselves way too much and thinks they can do no wrong and they're perfect.

Answer 2

People who have NPD have a grandiose and inflated ego, and are known to lie frequently.  However, the key here is that individuals with NPD are still (usually) reported as being highly likable.  Even clinical psychologists who are treating NPD will sometimes get a bit wrapped up in the charisma of someone with NPD.  It is (reportedly) also slightly more common in males than females.

However, HPD usually involves attention seeking through means of promiscuity, wild and dangerous behaviors (such as drug abuse), or physical appearance.  They also over-exaggerate emotions.

Ultimately, there can be some hazy area between the two, which is why this is a great question, but someone with NPD often talks down to people and will not be bothered much when someone else takes the spotlight in a discussion group or friend circle.  However, someone with HPD will immediately start acting out when others become the center of attention, and they usually don't come across as a "know-it-all".