Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a mental health condition characterized by an obsessive focus on perceived flaws in physical appearance. These perceived flaws are often minor or not observable to others, yet they cause significant distress and impair daily functioning.

Clinical Features

Individuals with BDD are preoccupied with one or more perceived defects or flaws in their physical appearance, which they believe make them look unattractive, ugly, abnormal, or deformed. Common areas of concern include the skin, hair, nose, and body shape. This preoccupation can lead to repetitive behaviors such as mirror checking, excessive grooming, skin picking, or seeking reassurance from others.

Diagnostic Criteria

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the diagnostic criteria for BDD include:

1. Preoccupation with one or more perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance that are not observable or appear slight to others.
2. At some point during the course of the disorder, the individual has performed repetitive behaviors (e.g., mirror checking, excessive grooming) or mental acts (e.g., comparing appearance with others) in response to the appearance concerns.
3. The preoccupation causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
4. The appearance preoccupation is not better explained by concerns with body fat or weight in an individual whose symptoms meet diagnostic criteria for an eating disorder.

Epidemiology

BDD affects approximately 1.7% to 2.4% of the general population. It is equally common in males and females, although the specific areas of concern may differ between genders. The disorder typically begins in adolescence, a critical period for body image development.

Etiology

The exact cause of BDD is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. Family history of BDD or other mental health disorders, childhood teasing or abuse, and societal pressures regarding appearance may contribute to the development of BDD.

Treatment

Effective treatment for BDD often involves a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication. CBT for BDD focuses on changing distorted beliefs about appearance and reducing compulsive behaviors. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with BDD.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, many individuals with BDD experience significant improvement in symptoms. However, without treatment, BDD can become chronic and lead to severe functional impairment, including social isolation, academic or occupational difficulties, and increased risk of suicide.

See Also

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Eating Disorders
• Anxiety Disorders

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
• Phillips, K. A. (2009). Understanding Body Dysmorphic Disorder: An Essential Guide. Oxford University Press.