Body dysmorphia is a ________.

• A. somatic symptom disorder
• B. psychotic disorder
• C. obsessive-compulsive related disorder
• D. dissociative disorder

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the definition of body dysmorphia, also known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). It is characterized by an excessive preoccupation with perceived flaws in physical appearance that are not observable or appear minor to others.
2. Step 2: Review the categories of psychological disorders to see where body dysmorphia fits. Somatic symptom disorders involve physical symptoms without a medical cause, psychotic disorders involve loss of contact with reality, and dissociative disorders involve disruptions in consciousness or identity.
3. Step 3: Recognize that body dysmorphia involves repetitive behaviors or mental acts (like mirror checking or excessive grooming) related to appearance concerns, which aligns it with obsessive-compulsive related disorders.
4. Step 4: Recall that obsessive-compulsive related disorders include conditions characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, which matches the pattern seen in body dysmorphia.
5. Step 5: Conclude that body dysmorphia is best classified as an obsessive-compulsive related disorder based on its symptoms and behavioral patterns.