Trichophilia

Trichophilia
Synonyms	Hair fetishism
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Sexual attraction to hair
Complications
Onset
Duration
Types
Causes
Risks
Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis
Prevention
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Deaths	N/A

Trichophilia, also known as hair fetishism, is a type of paraphilia where an individual experiences sexual attraction to human hair. This attraction can be towards head hair, body hair, or even facial hair. Trichophilia is considered a form of fetishism, which is characterized by a sexual focus on a non-genital body part or inanimate object.

Characteristics

Individuals with trichophilia may be aroused by the sight, touch, or even the smell of hair. The attraction can be specific to certain types of hair, such as long hair, curly hair, or a particular color. Some may prefer natural hair, while others may be attracted to styled or treated hair.

Trichophilia can manifest in various ways, from a mild preference to a strong fixation that is necessary for sexual arousal. In some cases, individuals may collect hair or hair-related items, such as wigs or hairbrushes, as part of their fetish.

Causes

The exact cause of trichophilia is not well understood. Like other paraphilias, it may develop due to a combination of psychological, biological, and social factors. Some theories suggest that early childhood experiences or conditioning may play a role in the development of such fetishes.

Diagnosis

Trichophilia is typically diagnosed by a mental health professional through clinical interviews and assessments. It is important to distinguish between a harmless preference and a paraphilia that causes distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Treatment

Treatment for trichophilia may not be necessary unless the fetish causes significant distress or impairment. In such cases, therapy options may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which can help individuals manage their thoughts and behaviors. In some instances, medication may be prescribed to address underlying issues such as anxiety or depression.

Cultural and Social Aspects

Hair has been a symbol of beauty and sexuality in many cultures throughout history. The significance of hair can vary widely, influencing the prevalence and expression of trichophilia. In some cultures, long hair is considered a sign of femininity and attractiveness, which may contribute to the development of hair-related fetishes.

Also see

• Paraphilia
• Fetishism
• Psychosexual disorder
• Cognitive behavioral therapy