Detection, diagnosis and treatment of body dysmorphic disorder in young people

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is characterised by an intense, impairing and distressing preoccupation with perceived flaws in physical appearance that are not visible or appear slight to others. BDD is highly debilitating, associated with a range of negative outcomes, and left untreated, often becomes chronic. 

BDD is under-researched, under-diagnosed, and commonly mis-diagnosed. Although Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for BDD, there are substantial barriers to accessing this evidence-based treatment, and for individuals who access treatment, outcomes vary substantially. 

We are therefore conducting mixed methods research to further understand detection, diagnosis, and treatment of BDD in young people. It is hoped that findings will provide crucial insight into existing knowledge of BDD across different professional groups, inform targeted training for mental health clinicians, promote developments in clinical practice, and improve effectiveness of treatment.