Publication

1996 - Oxford University Press, New York, New York (State)

Language

English

Word Count

89,250 words, Guess

Page Count

357 pages

Identifiers

and 5 more
  • Goodreads2563530
  • Library of Congress Control Number96004976
  • OCLC Control Number34150033
  • Better World Books9780195083170
  • Open LibraryOL968472M

Classifications

  • DDC616.89
  • LCCRC569.5.B64 P48 1996
  • LCCRC569.5.B64P48 1996

Description

In a world obsessed with appearances, it is not surprising that body dysmorphic disorder, or BDD, has manifested itself as a troubling and relatively common problem for many individuals. In The Broken Mirror, the first and most definitive book on BDD, Dr. Katharine Phillips draws on years of clinical practice, scientific research, and professional evaluations of over 700 patients to bring readers her expertise and experience with this often debilitating illness. BDD causes sufferers to be obsessed by perceived flaws in their appearance and may afflict as much as two percent of the population, or nearly five million people. Many sufferers are able to function well in society, but remain secretly obsessed by their "hideous acne" or "horrible nose," sneaking constant peeks at a pocket mirror, or spending hours at a time redoing makeup. Others find their lives disintegrate because of their appearance obsessions. It is not an uncommon disorder, simply a hidden one, since sufferers are often embarrassed to tell even their closest friends about their concerns. The author presents the stories and interviews of over 200 individuals to show the many different behaviors and symptoms of BDD, and includes a quick self-assessment questionnaire. Four new chapters provide updated information on treatment of BDD, frequently obtained treatments to be avoided, and more detailed advice for family members and friends on how to cope with the disorder. Left untreated, the torment of BDD can lead to psychiatric hospitalization and sometimes suicide. With treatment, many sufferers are able to lead normal lives. The Broken Mirror is literally a lifesaving handbook for sufferers, their families, and their doctors. - Publisher.

First Sentence

Millions of Americans have a secret obsession.

Subjects

Other Editions

  • The broken mirror: understanding and treating body dysmorphic disorderOxford University Press1996-01-01

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