Prevalence and Psychological Correlates of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) Features Among Youths in India
Sruthi Annie Vincent, M ManjulaAbstract
Background:
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is often underdiagnosed in youths despite its significant impact on functioning. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of BDD features among youths in the Indian population and to assess perfectionism, body esteem, appearance-based rejection sensitivity (Appearance-RS), and psychopathology among those identified to have the features of BDD.
Method:
An exploratory quantitative study was conducted with 231 undergraduate students (ages 18–24) in Bangalore, India. Participants completed the BDD Symptom Scale, Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, Body-Esteem Scale, Appearance-RS Scale, and the Brief Symptom Inventory-53. Data were analyzed using independent sample t-tests.
Results:
Features of BDD were present in 25.5% of the sample. Cognitions associated with BDD (49.3%) and avoidance (37.4%) were the most distressing symptoms. The BDD-positive group scored significantly higher in self-oriented perfectionism (
Conclusion:
The study highlights a high prevalence of BDD features among youths, deeply intertwined with perfectionism and social rejection fears. These findings suggest that mental health interventions for body image should adopt a multidimensional approach addressing these underlying personality factors.