In DSM-5, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is classified under which grouping, and what feature distinguishes it from somatic symptom disorder?
- A Anxiety disorders; BDD involves purely physical symptoms whereas SSD involves cognitive amplification
- B OCD and Related Disorders; BDD involves preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in appearance accompanied by repetitive behaviours (mirror checking, camouflaging), not predominantly physical symptoms ✓
- C Somatic symptom and related disorders; they are in the same chapter and distinguished only by the body part involved
- D Depressive disorders; BDD is a variant of atypical depression with somatic features
Correct answer: B. OCD and Related Disorders; BDD involves preoccupation with an imagined or slight defect in appearance accompanied by repetitive behaviours (mirror checking, camouflaging), not predominantly physical symptoms
Explanation
DSM-5 classifies BDD within the OCD and Related Disorders chapter alongside OCD, hoarding, trichotillomania, and excoriation disorder, reflecting shared phenomenology (intrusive, unwanted preoccupation + compulsive/repetitive behaviours). BDD centres on perceived appearance flaws and associated repetitive behaviours (mirror checking, reassurance-seeking, camouflaging). Somatic symptom disorder involves bodily symptoms with excessive health-related thoughts/behaviours. The distinction matters because BDD responds to SSRI + CBT with ERP, similar to OCD.
Reference: Kaplan & Sadock's Synopsis of Psychiatry, 11th ed.
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