Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
Body dysmorphic disorder is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with a real or imagined defect in one's physical appearance. People with BDD have a distorted perception of their appearance, and are preoccupied with perceived flaws, such as a certain facial feature or imperfections of the skin. They often feel that they are ugly or disfigured. People with body dysmorphic disorder often have problems controlling negative thoughts about their appearance, even when reassured by others that they look fine and that the minor or perceived flaws aren't noticeable or excessive. A majority of people suffering with BDD engage in compulsions that make them feel better temporarily, but tend to exacerbate the disorder over the long term. These may include repetitive checking of a minor or imagined flaw in mirrors. In contrast, other people with BDD may take great pains to aoid mirrors altogether. Other common behaviors include repetitive grooming, checking of areas that are of concern, attempting to hide certain areas with make-up, hats or clothing, and mutlple visits to doctors, particularly dermatologists.
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