The scientific status of safety behaviors in body dysmorphic disorder

Abstract

Individuals with body dysmorphic disorder engage in maladaptive behaviors such as checking mirrors, excessive grooming, asking others for reassurance, and avoiding situations due to their appearance. These counterproductive coping mechanisms, or false “safety behaviors,” serve to maintain and exacerbate symptoms rather than alleviating them. The present review provides a summary of cross-sectional, longitudinal, experimental, and treatment research to highlight the relevance of these behaviors to body dysmorphic disorder. Additionally, the article identifies current gaps in the research and future directions that will be important in further understanding the role of these behaviors.