Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Although people tend to think of BDD or Body Dysmorphic Disorder as a comparatively recent diagnosis in the field of medicines, it is definitely not so, although it is still unfamiliar with a number of therapists as well as physicians.

A researcher from Italy, Morselli records the very first documentation of this disorder. He referred to this disorder as ‘dysmorphophobia’ or the ‘fear of ugliness’. Although researches are being done on BDD (or Body Dysmorphic Disorder), the cause as well as the cures of this disorder are not yet known.

What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder or BDD?


BDD or Body Dysmorphic Disorder is characterized by obsessive focus of on a physical defect or defect in the very appearance of the patient.

This defect may both be original as well as conceived by the imaginative mind of the patient. If such a physical defect is a part of the patient, then it tends to be conceived in relatively higher prospects.

When a person suffering of BDD looks into the mirror, the patient may perceive things, which are not present in reality and may even visualize things that focus on the patient’s deformity.

Very often, these people are perceived as people with average, or even attractive looks although the patients suffering of this problem tends to perceive themselves as exceptionally ugly.

Criterion that needs to be considered for Body Dysmorphic Disorder

* This disorder is characterized by preoccupation with imaginative defects in appearance. Even if the person’s appearance is marked by slight anomaly, the patient tends to be excessively concerned with it.

* The preoccupation with physical defect may lead to significant distress or disabilities in occupational, social, or other domains of functioning.

Some physicians tend to believe that BDD or Body Dysmorphic Disorder is very close to anorexia nervosa. However, while anorexia nervosa is usually seen among women, patients of Body Dysmorphic Disorder can be both men as well as women.

It usually starts during puberty, though it is very difficult to get acquainted with the period of onset, as studies suggest that it takes around 9 years to diagnose the problem. However, some patients have even been reported to have the onset at three or four years.

Causes of Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder is known to affect 1 to 2% of the world’s populace. Heredity is also a pre determining factor for Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Environmental factors may also play a significant role in this case in case one is already pre-disposed to BDD genetically.

The factors may include teasing by friends or families that put too much or too little emphasis on looks.

Treatment of Body Dysmorphic Disorder or BDD

Treatment of BDD usually considers a number of approaches, beginning with cognitive behavioral therapies, wherein patients are taught to recognize inconsistency in their thoughts and later on challenge them with approaches that are more positive.

Another variant of treatment is also found, which is referred to as the exposure and response prevention. This treatment is usually used for treating phobias.

This method involves the patient to be asked to prepare a list of circumstances that they may tend to avoid for fear or anxiety about their looks. This list is arranged in a specific manner, beginning from the most provoking situation.

The patient is made to choose one from the middle. Then the patient is encouraged to go for some cognitive therapy, wherein the patient is made to rationalize himself or herself, thereby helping patients to see things in a better light.

Conclusion


Although cures are not available for BDD, medication for anxiety and depression are used in this case. Psychotherapies can also prove to be helpful for treating BDD, as it is helpful in getting rid of anxiety and identifying the root cause of BDD.

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