Attention seeking

Enjoying the attention of others is quite socially acceptable. In some instances, however, the need for attention can lead to difficulties. The term attention seeking (or attention-seeking) is generally reserved for such situations, where excessive and “inappropriate attention seeking” is seen.

Styles
The following styles of attention seeking have been identified:
 * Extroverted positive overt style - associated with narcissism, bragging and boasting. May also include shocking exhibitionist behavior such as streaking.
 * Extroverted positive subdued style - similar but more subtle such as wearing designer clothes, wearing sexy clothes or dominating the conversation.
 * Extroverted negative overt style - to gain pity and reassurance.
 * Extroverted negative subdued style - making a negative statement to the world by, for example, dressing in an unusual style.

In different pathologies or contexts

 * Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder
 * Münchausen by Internet
 * Münchausen syndrome
 * Münchausen syndrome by proxy
 * Personality disorders - A sustained pattern of attention seeking in adults is often associated with, in particular, histrionic personality disorder - but it may instead be associated with narcissistic personality disorder or borderline personality disorder. The expression drama queen is associated with histrionic behavior.
 * Self-destructive behaviour - It is a common misconception that self-destructive behaviour is inherently attention seeking, or at least that attention is a primary motive. While this is undoubtedly true in some cases, normally the motivation runs much deeper than that. Many self-injurers are very self-conscious of their wounds and scars and feel guilty about their behavior leading them to go to great lengths to conceal their behavior from others.
 * Voluntary false confession

Tactical ignoring
Tactical ignoring, also known as planned ignoring, is a behavioral management strategy used in response to challenging behavior that seeks to receive attention or to gain a reaction from others. It is a commonly used strategy when the person displaying the attention-seeking behavior still feels rewarded by a negative response.