Clinical considerations for the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder with cognitive-behavioral therapy

Body Image. 2008 Mar;5(1):39-49. doi: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2007.12.002. Epub 2008 Mar 4.

Abstract

Although cognitive behavior therapy has been found to be very effective in the treatment of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), there still remain a number of challenges that clinicians face in the treatment of individuals with BDD. In this article, we discuss issues related to comorbid depression, suicidality, substance use disorders, personality disorders as well as the role of early life experiences, delusional intensity of beliefs, and motivation to change. The aim of this review is to provide a treatment aid to clinicians by offering specific recommendations for improved care based on the available literature as well as our clinical experience.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Body Image*
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / methods*
  • Delusions / epidemiology
  • Delusions / psychology
  • Delusions / therapy
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / epidemiology
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / psychology
  • Depressive Disorder, Major / therapy
  • Humans
  • Motivation
  • Personality Disorders / epidemiology
  • Personality Disorders / psychology
  • Personality Disorders / therapy
  • Psychotherapy, Brief / methods
  • Somatoform Disorders / epidemiology
  • Somatoform Disorders / psychology
  • Somatoform Disorders / therapy*
  • Substance-Related Disorders / epidemiology
  • Substance-Related Disorders / prevention & control
  • Substance-Related Disorders / psychology