treatment
What is a major barrier to successful treatment for many individuals with BDD?
Poor insight, meaning they believe their perceived physical defects are real rather than a mental health issue.
What is the defining symptom of Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
An intense preoccupation with a perceived physical defect that others cannot see
What is the primary characteristic of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?
An intense preoccupation with a perceived physical defect that others cannot see or consider minor
What do experts believe causes Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
A combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors
Which behavior involves trying to improve the skin's appearance but often makes it worse?
Skin picking
Why are cosmetic surgery and dermatological treatments generally discouraged for individuals with BDD?
They rarely improve BDD symptoms and often make them worse.
Which of the following is a common repetitive behavior (compulsion) performed by someone with BDD?
Frequently checking their appearance in mirrors
BDD is closely related to which other mental health condition in terms of its obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Which of the following is a known biological risk factor for developing BDD?
Having a close blood relative with BDD or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
What is the term used for repetitive, time-consuming actions that people with BDD perform in response to their appearance concerns?
Compulsions or safety behaviors
Which type of psychotherapy is considered the first-line psychological treatment for Body Dysmorphic Disorder?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Someone with BDD might use hats, makeup, or specific clothing primarily to?
Camouflage or hide their perceived physical "flaws"
At what stage of life do symptoms of BDD most commonly begin?
Adolescence (teenage years)
Brain imaging studies suggest that people with BDD may process visual information differently. What is a common finding?
They tend to overfocus on tiny details rather than seeing the "big picture."
Which of the following is a classic mirror-related behavior seen in people with BDD?
Spending hours checking, analyzing, or trying to fix their perceived defect in the mirror
Which class of medication is most commonly prescribed and proven effective for treating BDD?
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
How does the preoccupation with appearance typically affect a person with BDD daily?
It consumes at least one hour, and often many hours, per day.
What is the term for a specific subtype of BDD where an individual believes their body build is too small or not muscular enough?
Muscle dysmorphia
Which neurotransmitter (brain chemical) is most commonly linked to BDD and is targeted by medications used to treat it?
Serotonin
Why might a person with BDD frequently ask friends or family members, "Does this make me look weird?"
They are constantly seeking reassurance about their appearance.
What is the primary goal of the "Response Prevention" part of ERP therapy in BDD?
To prevent the patient from engaging in safety behaviors like excessive grooming or mirror checking.
Which area of the body is most commonly a focus of concern for people with BDD?
The face (e.g., nose, skin, or hair)
How does BDD typically affect a person's social life?
It often leads to social isolation and avoidance due to fear of being judged or mocked.
What type of childhood or adolescent experience is frequently reported as a trigger or risk factor for BDD?
Being teased, bullied, or criticized about one's appearance
Which of the following is a common "camouflaging" behavior used by individuals with BDD?
Using makeup, hats, or specific clothing positions to hide their perceived defect