body dysmorphic disorder: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

No. Vanity involves pride in one's appearance. BDD involves intense shame, anxiety, and distress about perceived ugliness, leading to significant suffering and impairment.

Yes. The first-line treatments are specific forms of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and certain antidepressant medications (SSRIs). Treatment is often effective but can be challenging.

While both involve body image, eating disorders focus primarily on weight, shape, and controlling food intake. BDD can focus on any body part (nose, skin, hair, etc.) and does not necessarily involve disordered eating behaviours, though they can co-occur.

'Body dysmorphia' is a commonly used, informal shortening of 'body dysmorphic disorder'. In casual conversation it's understood, but in clinical or academic writing, the full term 'body dysmorphic disorder' (or BDD) is preferred for precision.

A mental health condition characterised by an obsessive and distressing preoccupation with perceived flaws in one's physical appearance that are minor or not observable to others.

Body dysmorphic disorder is usually clinical, academic, formal, mental-health journalism. not typical in casual everyday conversation, where 'body image issues' might be used instead. in register.

Body dysmorphic disorder: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbɒdi dɪsˈmɔːfɪk dɪˈsɔːdə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbɑːdi dɪsˈmɔːrfɪk dɪˈsɔːrdər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.