Specific causes of body dysmorphia are unknown. However, it's likely to be a combination of negative sense of self, exposure to negative experiences concerning one's body, and abnormal levels of brain chemicals such as serotonin.

Symptoms of body dysmorphia may include the following:

• Extreme preoccupation with a perceived flaw that cannot be seen by others

• Strongly believing there's a defect in appearance

• Constantly comparing your appearance to the appearance of others

• Avoiding socializing due to dysmorphic thoughts

• Seeking frequent reassurance from others in regards to your appearance

• Additional symptoms can be found here

• Perfectionism

• A previous mental health condition (ex: depression or anxiety)

• Familial history of body dysmorphic disorder or obsessive compulsive disorder

• Pressure from societal standards of beauty

• More can be found here

• Positive Effects:

  • May alleviate stress

  • Can improve mood

• Negative Effects (Furnham et al., 2002)

  • Can be correlated with exercise addiction

  • High appearance anxiety & low body satisfaction