In a world fixated on beauty, body image and self-esteem intertwine. The measure of some individual’s self-worth can be held in balance by every trip to the weighing scales, or by every glance in the mirror. People with negative body image, therefore, are more likely to suffer from low self-worth. They are also more likely to develop other eating disorders, one of which is body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), also known as body dysmorphia. This is a disorder affecting one percent of the population - both men and women - in which an individual chronically misperceives his or her body. What these individuals see reflected in the mirror is a grossly distorted view of objective reality. Put more simply, it is a disorder of ‘imagined ugliness.’
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is listed in the Diagnostic Statistics Manual under the section on obsessive compulsive disorders. An individual with body dysmorphia obsesses over perceived flaws that are either nonexistent or barely visible to others. They spend hours examining these flaws while performing compulsive, repetitive behaviours, such as grooming excessively or otherwise attempting to conceal the imagined imperfection. They often seek out cosmetic surgery, or make other body modifications - behaviour which provides only temporary relief at best. Because people with body dysmorphia can’t focus on anything but their perceived flaws, and their obsession often interferes with their daily life. Tending to avoid social situations, fearing that others will ridicule and reject them, they miss out on what life has to offer, in some cases leading to further isolation and depression, issues which feed a negative downward spiral.
While BDD is a distinct eating disorder, individuals who suffer from BDD may go on to develop other eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder if they do not seek treatment like body image therapy.
The causes and effects of body dysmorphia and other body image issues – as with any type of eating disorders - can be complex and wide-ranging, but some of the more common causes and effects are explored below.