Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Treatment

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is defined by a preoccupation with perceived defects or flaws in one’s own physical appearance, often related to the face or the head (e.g., size or shape of the nose, wrinkles). Although the “defect” is usually not [Page 543]noticeable to other people, the individual with BDD misperceives it as hideous and repulsive. If there is a slight physical defect, the concern about it has to be markedly excessive. At some point during the course of the disorder, the individual engages in time-consuming repetitive behaviors (e.g., checking in mirrors) or mental acts (e.g., comparing with others). Individuals with BDD are so distressed about their appearance that it interferes with their daily life. The appearance preoccupation is not better accounted for by concerns ...