The Joycescape Network

by : Jocelyn Iyog

Body dysmorphic disorder is a dangerous psychological disorder in which the person affected is excessively fixated on perceived defects in his or her physical features. Sometimes the disorder manifests itself in a general feeling of having a substandard appearance, despite any evidence to the contrary. Other times, a person with body dysmorphic disorder will fixate on a particular body part to the point of experiencing depression, anxiety, and social withdrawal.

While only 1% to 2% of people meet the diagnostic criteria for body dysmorphic disorder, more than half of them are women. The cause is not known. Whether psychological, environmental, or physical factors influence the development of the disorder is relatively unknown. There does, however seem to be a link between body dysmorphic disorder and prior abuse.

Symptoms of body dysmorphic disorder are most commonly found in young adults. But the disorder has been found in children and older adults, though far less frequently. The biggest risks are of major depressive disorder and increased risk of suicide. In fact, the suicide rate for people with body dysmorphic disorder is actually much higher than in people with major depression.

Treatment of the disorder involves a multi-faceted approach, including psychotherapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and certain antidepressant medications.