AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition in which you can’t stop thinking about one or more perceived defects or flaws in your appearance-a flaw that appears minor or can’t be seen by others. But you may feel so embarrassed, ashamed and anxious that you may avoid many social situations.

Detailed explanation-2: -Body dysmorphic disorder, or BDD, formally known as dysmorphophobia, is a psychiatric condition defined in the DSM 5 as a preoccupation with a perceived defect or flaw in one’s physical appearance that is either not noticeable or only slightly observable by others.

Detailed explanation-3: -Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a mental health problem. If you have BDD, you may be so upset about the appearance of your body that it gets in the way of your ability to live normally. Many of us have what we think are flaws in our appearance.

Detailed explanation-4: -There are two subtypes of BDD: Muscle Dysmorphia and BDD by Proxy. Both of these subtypes appear to respond to the same basic treatment strategies as BDD (cognitive behavior therapy or CBT and medications). However, the CBT therapist in particular needs to adjust the treatment so that it has the right focus.

Detailed explanation-5: -Postponing your appearance preoccupation means that it is perfectly OK for an initial thought about your appearance to pop in to your mind (e.g., “I can’t stand my disgusting freckles” or “life would be so much better if I was taller”).