Have u come across anyone who is obsessively preoccupied with her dark skin or worried  beyond redemption about his ‘larger than normal’ nose?

Well, it may help to know that we are dealing with someone suffering from a psychological condition called the Body Dysmorphic disorder (BDD)  also known as ‘Dysmorphic syndrome’ or ‘Body dysmorphia’.

The disorder shot to  prominence recently with  the king of pop – Michael Jackson- himself being diagnosed with  it.

Obsessive-compulsive traits are clearly seen in several individuals with this disorder — which usually sets in during adolescence.

Several symptoms are exhibited by the BDD sufferers but the most prominent feature is the  heavy grooming that they indulge in and the gargantuan amount of time that they spend before the mirror, worrying  about a  perceived defect (often non existent) .

The illness causes psychological distress to the point of severe anxiety, depression  and  impaired  social functioning. Social phobia and  eating disorders like anorexia  nervosa are some of the co- morbidities associated with  BDD (Little wonder that  MJ faded out on an empty stomach!).

In an attempt to set right their ‘mal-aligned’ features many of these patients seek the help of dermatologists and plastic surgeons. One surgery is often followed with requests for more!! (don’t we know all know that MJ’s later day identity became synonymous with his much- operated -upon nose?)

BDD is a chronic condition that could worsen with lack of treatment. However, it must be appreciated that Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) has proven beneficial for many.

Dr. Reeja Tharu

Related links

1. Michael Jackson’s Swan Song : Sans Voice

2. Michael Jackson’s tryst with Vitiligo

In the recent years  emphasis had shifted from Michael’s music to the way he looked and, of course, behaved. The world saw a nice-looking, young, black man slowly being transformed into a white woman!! And many joked that such bizarre behavior could only occur in America!

But  how did the oh-so-black MJ become white with years?

 Many…