Topic > The psychological impact of body dysmorphic disorder

IndexEpidemiologyDifferences in onset and genderSymptomsCauses and risk factorsDiagnosisTreatmentConclusionReferences:Body dysmorphic disorder is a psychological condition in which a person is unable to stop thinking about their deformities or alleged deficits in one's physical appearance -appearance: an imperfection that, to others, is invisible or indiscernible. In any case, you may feel so embarrassed and nervous that you maintain a measured distance from numerous social circumstances. There is a gross exaggeration of how important a flaw is if it is real. (Bjornsson, Didie & Phillips, 2010). Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Body dysmorphia is a serious and disabling disorder characterized by a presumed physical defect that causes significant impairments in daily functioning (American Psychiatric Association, 2013 ). When someone has this condition, they remain strongly fixated on their appearance and feel embarrassed, they may constantly and frequently look at any reflective surface, preparing themselves or seeking consolation, from time to time for a long period every day. Your apparent defect and repeated practices cause you critical pain and affect your ability to function in everyday life. Your idea of ​​this condition is constantly evolving. You may perceive that your beliefs about your apparent defects may not be valid, or accept that they most likely are valid, or be completely persuaded that they are valid. The severity of BDD can wax and wane, and flare-ups tend to result in absences from school, work, or socializing, sometimes leading to prolonged social isolation, with some becoming homebound for long periods (Bjornsson, Didie & Phillips, 2010 ). Social impairment is usually greater, sometimes approaching avoidant behavior towards all social activities (Phillips, 2004). Poor concentration and motivation compromise academic and work performance (Phillips, 2004). Epidemiology Body dysmorphia appears to be a rather common condition. Epidemiological studies have highlighted a specific commonality of 0.7%-2.4% in the entire population (Faravelli et al., 1997; Koran, Abujaoude, Large & Serpe, 2008; Otto, Wilhelm, Cohen & Harlow, 2001; Rief , Buhlmann, Wilhelm, Borkenhagen & Brahler, 2006). Research also predicts that the American Psychiatric Association states that BDD is more common than other mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or anorexia nervosa. BDD shares characteristics with obsessive-compulsive disorder (Fornaro, Gabrielli, Albano, et al. 2009), but involves greater depression and social avoidance. BDD is often associated with social anxiety disorder (Fang & Hofmann, 2010). Some experience the illusion that others are secretly pointing out their shortcomings. Cognitive tests and neuroimaging suggest both a bias towards detailed visual analysis and a tendency towards emotional hyperarousal (Buchanan, Rossell & Castle, 2011). Onset and gender differences Body dysmorphia normally begins during early adolescence and affects both men and women. . The fixation that the body structure is excessively small or not strong enough occurs only in men. The common time of onset of BDD is commonly between the ages of 12 and 17. Research shows that the onset of this dysmorphic condition may be related to bullying or maltreatment during youth or pre-adulthood. Males and females essentially don't contrast much in terms of body dysmorphic symptoms. The focused body area can be practicallyany, but commonly it is the face, hair, stomach, thighs or hips (Phillips, 2004). Although it was observed that women tended to be absorbed by their buttocks and their weight, skin and cover with cosmetics and have comorbidity with bulimia nervosa. Men were destined to be distracted by body structure, genitals and diminishing hair, to use a cap to cover themselves, and to abuse substances of confidence. However, it has been studied that females are three times more susceptible to developing body dysmorphia than males (Boroughs, Krawczyk & Thompson, 2010) Symptoms Extraordinary reluctance regarding physical appearance, constant attention or examination of the alleged defect, I often check the /and defective part(s) in mirrors and various shiny surfaces, frequent touching, scratching, judging or staring at the perceived defect (Cororve & Gleaves, 2001; Bjornsson, Didie & Phillips, 2010) Neglecting work, social activities, family, individual well-being and prosperity, and various aspects of life due to distractions from imperfections, social withdrawal and anxiety, stay away from mirrors as much as possible and discard them from one's home, constant thoughts of hiding the imperfection, for example through wigs, clothes, or cosmetics, starving or eating much less (Phillips, 2004). Excessive visits to a dermatology or restorative specialist trying to eliminate deformities. Spend a few hours a day reflecting on the flaw. Seeking validation from other people and feeling disappointed when they don't spot the imperfection. Successfully capturing “selfies”: A method for seeking self-acceptance. Causes and risk factors Some specific factors appear to increase the risk of developing or starting symptoms of body dysmorphia, such as: Blood relatives who suffer from Body Dysmorphic Disorder or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Traumatic life experiences, such as being teased as a child, or being neglected or abused, or sexual trauma (Buhlmann, Marques, & Wilhelm, 2012). Particular characteristic attributes, the main example being the tendency to have perfectionistic behaviors. One of the biggest risk factors as well as a likely cause of BDD could be the pressure that society places on an individual regarding the unrealistic beauty standards that the media portrays. He suffers from other psychological disorders such as anxiety disorders, borderline personality disorder, depression, suicidality (Kenny, Knott, & Cox, 2012), obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance abuse (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Bullying, peer pressure or being teased also facilitate BDD symptoms (NHS, 2014). DiagnosisDiagnosing body dysmorphic disorder can be difficult, as individuals with this condition often hide their symptoms due to shame and embarrassment. However, a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional is critical for an accurate diagnosis. Diagnostic criteria for BDD include: Concern with one or more perceived flaws or defects in physical appearance that are unobservable or appear minor to others. Repetitive behaviors or mental acts in response to appearance concerns (e.g., checking oneself in the mirror, excessive grooming, seeking reassurance). Worry causes significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The concern is not better explained by concerns about body fat or weight in an individual with an eating disorder. The concern is not solely focused on any concerns about body dysmorphia due to excessive muscle building. TreatmentThe treatment for/