Which client is most likely to be diagnosed with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)?

• A. A client who has intrusive thoughts about contamination and engages in excessive hand washing.
• B. A client who has recurrent panic attacks and avoids situations where escape might be difficult.
• C. A client who is preoccupied with a perceived flaw in their physical appearance, spends hours checking mirrors, and seeks reassurance about their looks.
• D. A client who experiences persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and difficulty sleeping.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). BDD is characterized by a preoccupation with one or more perceived defects or flaws in physical appearance that are not observable or appear slight to others.
2. Step 2: Identify the key symptoms of BDD, which include excessive checking of mirrors, seeking reassurance about appearance, and significant distress or impairment caused by these concerns.
3. Step 3: Review each client description and match their symptoms to the criteria of BDD. For example, intrusive thoughts about contamination and excessive hand washing are typical of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), not BDD.
4. Step 4: Recognize that recurrent panic attacks and avoidance of certain situations are symptoms more consistent with Panic Disorder or Agoraphobia, not BDD.
5. Step 5: Note that persistent sadness, loss of interest, and sleep difficulties are hallmark symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, which differs from BDD.