Body Dysmorphic Disorder
Posted on: June 9th, 2014
We have all heard the expression, “Nobody’s perfect,” and of course, none of us are. When it comes to our appearance, most of us have something about ourselves we would happily change. Maybe we would prefer to be taller or have fewer freckles. Maybe we wish our curly hair were straight or our ears were smaller. All of this is perfectly normal, but for some, unhappiness with an aspect of our appearance becomes an obsession that can make life extremely challenging.
Obsessive Thoughts
When someone focuses on a particular aspect of his or her appearance for many hours a day, the condition is described as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). This disorder has been nicknamed “imagined ugliness” because the person becomes obsessed with a perceived flaw that nobody else would notice or even consider a flaw. What is so striking about BDD is that it may be centered on the most minor of so-called “imperfections.” For example, a teen may decide her upper arms are too big and obsess about it constantly. She may become chronically self-conscious and worry that others are judging her.
Compulsive Behavior
Similar to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, BDD is characterized by obsessive thoughts which ultimately lead to compulsive behavior. Like OCD, Body Dysmorphic Disorder can be extremely disruptive to one’s everyday activities. The teen obsessing about her upper arms may feel compelled to stop and stare in any mirror she passes to make sure her upper arms aren’t showing. She might change her clothes several times a day in an effort to feel better about her appearance. She may avoid social interaction. At the extreme, she might even opt for surgery to “correct the issue”.
As the old adage goes, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” The problem with BDD is that the beholder suffers from a disorder and has created a distorted view of him or herself that is divorced from reality. Fortunately, this disorder is treatable. So if you or someone you love shows symptoms of Body Dysmorphic Disorder, contact Maureen Kritzer-Lange Psychotherapy. Email: info@maureenkritzerlange.com or phone: 973-313-1691.
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