Attention Seeking Behaviour

a conscious or un-conscious attempt to become the centre of attention, sometimes to gain validation or admiration

Attention-seeking behaviour can include saying or doing something with the goal of getting the attention of a person or a group of people.

What can cause this behaviour?

Attention-seeking behaviour may be driven by:

• jealousy When someone finds themselves threatened by another person who takes all the attention, they may respond with attention-seeking behaviour.
• low self-esteem Some people think that they are overlooked and so they think that the only solution to restore their balance is to bring back the lost attention. The attention they will get in this case will provide them with reassurance and will help them think that they are worthy.
• loneliness can result in an increased urge to seek attention, even in those who would not usually do so.

Sometimes it can be due to personality disorders.

This behaviour is often seen in young children, but sometimes adults will also try to use this to their advantage when they feel neglected. Feigning a lack of ability means you ask others to perform tasks for you because you tell them that you can’t. By pretending to be inadequate in certain areas, you gain the attention of others and have someone holding your hand through things- even at the risk of making yourself seem inadequate and annoying those around you.

If you crave attention and fall into using unhealthy behaviours to get it, you can get help. You don’t have to rely on others for your confidence and self-esteem. In fact, the best source of self-esteem is feeling confident about yourself. You have to love yourself first. Otherwise, the love of others may never feel sincere to you.

On the other hand, when you notice that someone you care about is engaging in this toxic behaviour, you can help them to move away from this destructive pattern of attention seeking. The best route is to avoid getting angry or lashing out at them for their behaviour. Instead, approach them to express concern and reassure them that you are there for them. If they are receptive, direct them to a mental health professional with experience treating the causes of attention-seeking. Because some dramatic individuals can be manipulative and abusive, you should also make sure that you are not getting into a situation that allows them to damage your mental or physical health

~Maryam Javed .