Dermatillomania

Dermatillomania (also known as Compulsive Skin Picking or CSP) is a psychological condition that manifests in the form of repetitive touching, scratching, picking, and digging at one's own skin. It is an impulse control disorder and one of several Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) currently classified in the DSM-5 under Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders.

Symptoms

The primary characteristic of Dermatillomania is the compulsive urge to pick at one's own skin. This can occur in response to a variety of triggers, including stress, anxiety, boredom, or perceived skin irregularities. The behavior often results in visible skin damage and disfigurement, and can lead to severe physical and psychological complications.

Causes

The exact cause of Dermatillomania is unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. It is often associated with other mental health conditions, such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).

Treatment

Treatment for Dermatillomania typically involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly a type known as Habit Reversal Training (HRT), has been found to be effective in reducing skin picking behaviors. Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may also be used to help manage symptoms.

See Also

• Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder

References

Dermatillomania Resources
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