Body checking

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Body Checking
SpecialtyPsychiatry, Psychology
SymptomsRepeatedly checking one's body for perceived flaws
ComplicationsBody dysmorphic disorder, Anxiety, Depression
Usual onsetAdolescence or early adulthood
DurationChronic
CausesBody dysmorphic disorder, Anxiety disorders
Risk factorsLow self-esteem, perfectionism, social anxiety
TreatmentCognitive behavioral therapy, Medication
PrognosisVariable
FrequencyCommon


Body checking is a behavior characterized by the repeated and compulsive examination of one's body, often focusing on perceived flaws or imperfections. This behavior is commonly associated with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and can also be present in individuals with eating disorders, anxiety disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Overview[edit | edit source]

Body checking involves behaviors such as frequently looking in mirrors, measuring body parts, pinching skin, or comparing one's body to others. These actions are often driven by a distorted perception of one's body image and can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Body checking is often linked to underlying psychological conditions such as:

  • Body dysmorphic disorder: Individuals with BDD have an obsessive focus on perceived defects in their appearance, which are often unnoticeable to others.
  • Eating disorders: Body checking is common in disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, where individuals are preoccupied with their weight and body shape.
  • Anxiety disorders: Generalized anxiety and social anxiety can contribute to body checking behaviors as individuals may fear negative evaluation by others.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of body checking include:

  • Excessive mirror checking or avoidance
  • Frequent weighing or measuring of body parts
  • Pinching or squeezing skin to check for fat
  • Comparing one's body to others
  • Seeking reassurance from others about appearance

Complications[edit | edit source]

Body checking can lead to several complications, including:

  • Increased anxiety and distress
  • Development or worsening of depression
  • Social withdrawal and isolation
  • Impairment in occupational or academic functioning

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of body checking behaviors typically involves a comprehensive psychological evaluation. Clinicians assess the frequency and impact of these behaviors on the individual's life, often using structured interviews and self-report questionnaires.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for body checking behaviors often involves:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals challenge and change distorted beliefs about their body image and reduce compulsive checking behaviors.
  • Medication: Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be prescribed to help manage underlying anxiety or depression.
  • Mindfulness and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): These approaches can help individuals develop a healthier relationship with their body and reduce the urge to engage in checking behaviors.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals engaging in body checking varies. With appropriate treatment, many individuals experience a reduction in symptoms and an improvement in quality of life. However, without treatment, body checking can become chronic and lead to significant psychological distress.

Also see[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD