Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors

Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) are defined as the repetition of motor and cognitive actions that pose a risk of self-harm or cause distress to the individual’s own body. These behaviors are commonly associated with stress, concern, trouble or concentration difficulties and may be difficult to control. This situation, extensively studied in psychology and psychiatry, is closely linked to obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders.

The concept of body-focused repetitive behaviors began to be examined in detail in psychiatry and psychology during the second half of the 20th century. Known in the West literature as "Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs)", this concept is evaluated within the obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) spectrum but exhibits certain distinctions. Trichotillomania (hair pulling) and dermatillomania (skin picking) were first described in psychiatric handbooks and subsequently classified as clinical disorders.

Various behaviors fall under the category of BFRBs. The most common are:

1. Nail Biting (Onychophagia): The involuntary chewing or pulling of fingernails triggered by stress or anxiety.
2. Hair Pulling (Trichotillomania): The unconscious, repetitive pulling of hair from the scalp or other body areas such as eyebrows or eyelashes, leading to noticeable bald patches.
3. Skin Picking (Dermatillomania): The frequent picking of skin to the point of creating new wounds, often targeting blemishes, scars, or even healthy skin.
4. Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): The clenching or grinding of teeth, typically during sleep.

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Biological, psychological, and environmental factors contribute to the development of BFRBs. These behaviors are linked to brain mechanisms involved in impulse control and may also be influenced by genetic factors. Certain imbalances in brain chemistry, particularly fluctuations in serotonin levels, can contribute to the persistence of these behaviors.