Attention seeking

Attention seeking behavior is to act in a way that is likely to elicit attention. Attention seeking behavior is defined in the DSM-5 as "engaging in behavior designed to attract notice and to make oneself the focus of others' attention and admiration".^[1]: 780 This definition does not ascribe a motivation to the behavior and assumes a human actor, although the term "attention seeking" sometimes also assumes a motive of seeking validation. People are thought to engage in both positive and negative attention seeking behavior independent of the actual benefit or harm to health. In line with much research and a dynamic self-regulatory processing model of narcissism, motivations for attention seeking are considered to be driven by self-consciousness and thus an externalization of personality rather than internal and self-motivated behavior.^[2] Attention seeking is often caused by threats to one's self-concept and the need for social acceptance.^[3] This type of influence on behavior can result in a potential loss of a person's sense of agency, personality disorder and the behavior associated with these conditions.

Enjoying the attention of others is socially acceptable in some situations,^[4] and attention-seeking may be adaptive in some contexts like acting (upstaging) or marketing.^[5] However, an excessive need for attention is often a symptom of an underlying personality disorder and can lead to difficulties in interpersonal relationships. One strategy often used by teachers and behavior analysts to counter attention-seeking behavior is planned or tactical ignoring.^[6]