Body Dysmorphic Disorder

BDD or also known as Body Dysmorphic disorder is a condition where the individual experiences an “overwhelming urge,feeling or preoccupation with oneself appearance” (sciencedirect). An individual with this disorder has a repetitive behavior to inspect, conceal, improve every flaw on their body. They are constantly checking in the mirror to ensure that their appearance is in tiptop shape. They are prone to excessive grooming and always feeling unsatisfied with their appearance. This condition can significantly affect the individual drastically causing distress and even functional impairment. BDD is a condition that is most common in adolescent females. Virtually any body part can be the cause of this disorder. The most common unsatisfied
body part in females is said to be hair. With more than 80% of females reported saying that their hair was the leading cause of their Body Dysmorphia. Although, body dysmorphia is more common in females it is not uncommon for male to also suffer from this disorder with a reported 40% of male saying that they as well suffer from this condition. BDD is more common in adolescents when peer teasing is present. Even more when the teasing is done by the opposite sex. People who suffer from BDD reported that they did not start to worry about their own body image until peer started making appearance related teasing. Many reported these experiences as vivid and traumatic. BDD interrupts the individual daily life,social life,educational, and occupational. When an individual suffers from this condition they tend to be more withdrawal from friends and family. BDD has also been linked to be caused by childhood adversity.