Abstract: Body Dysmorphic disorder is identified by extreme concern over a physical flaw (either imagined or genuine) which lacks substantial importance. There is much to be learned about this somewhat obscure disorder. Although there is still more to be understood, BDD is influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors. Many clinicians do not have an abundance of experience with patients who suffer from BDD and there is still insufficient research into the best treatment for those with BDD . Thus far, cognitive therapy seems to be the most popular form of treatment, but there has also been a mild positive response to biomedical treatment. Clinicians must work together along with current BDD patients to bring attention to this
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Often this observed abnormality will not be visible, or be of little importance to others. Individuals who suffer from body dysmorphic disorder will practice behaviors such as repeatedly checking mirrors, applying makeup, and constantly scrutinize their appearance( Sue, Sue, Sue, & Sue 2013). What makes those who suffer from BDD different from the rest of the population who may have experienced negative thoughts about their body, is that it severely impacts their quality of life in many different spheres such as relationships and employment. The psychological dimension seems to have the heaviest influence on BDD. Maladaptive cognition when it comes to body image is the major factor in the development of BDD. There may be some slight attribution to biological factors that contribute to BDD. Social causes such as early childhood experiences are also likely related to the development of BDD. This paper will shed light on this under-diagnosed disorder and how a multitude of factors affect how body dysmorphic disorder is understood and …show more content…
Since muscle dysmorphia is a more specific form of BDD it seems appropriate to address the aspects of this form of BDD. Although it is commonly accepted that body dysmorphic disorder affects both gender equally but BDD’s subset disorder, muscle dysphoria, is found to affect more males than females. This is likely due to the fact that culturally males are expected to be macho or strong. (Pope et al., 1997). Just as in individuals with general BDD, those who suffer from muscle dysmorphia are concerned with their appearance but specifically focus on the “…body as a whole; they are concerned that the are not sufficiently large or muscular” (Pope et al., 1997). Those suffering from muscle dysphoria will participate in behaviors that will help them be more muscular such as exercise, following specific and often extreme diets and sometimes will uses steroids. Individuals suffering from muscle dysphoria will also try to chose occupations where they have easy access to fitness center in order to satiate their need to
Often this observed abnormality will not be visible, or be of little importance to others. Individuals who suffer from body dysmorphic disorder will practice behaviors such as repeatedly checking mirrors, applying makeup, and constantly scrutinize their appearance( Sue, Sue, Sue, & Sue 2013). What makes those who suffer from BDD different from the rest of the population who may have experienced negative thoughts about their body, is that it severely impacts their quality of life in many different spheres such as relationships and employment. The psychological dimension seems to have the heaviest influence on BDD. Maladaptive cognition when it comes to body image is the major factor in the development of BDD. There may be some slight attribution to biological factors that contribute to BDD. Social causes such as early childhood experiences are also likely related to the development of BDD. This paper will shed light on this under-diagnosed disorder and how a multitude of factors affect how body dysmorphic disorder is understood and …show more content…
Since muscle dysmorphia is a more specific form of BDD it seems appropriate to address the aspects of this form of BDD. Although it is commonly accepted that body dysmorphic disorder affects both gender equally but BDD’s subset disorder, muscle dysphoria, is found to affect more males than females. This is likely due to the fact that culturally males are expected to be macho or strong. (Pope et al., 1997). Just as in individuals with general BDD, those who suffer from muscle dysmorphia are concerned with their appearance but specifically focus on the “…body as a whole; they are concerned that the are not sufficiently large or muscular” (Pope et al., 1997). Those suffering from muscle dysphoria will participate in behaviors that will help them be more muscular such as exercise, following specific and often extreme diets and sometimes will uses steroids. Individuals suffering from muscle dysphoria will also try to chose occupations where they have easy access to fitness center in order to satiate their need to