Adolescent BDD and Its Treatment

Body dysmorphic disorder usually emerges during adolescence and can have a profoundly negative impact on functioning and quality of life. Furthermore, earlier-onset BDD has been shown to be associated with a more severe and complex presentation in adulthood, highlighting the importance of early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. This chapter aims to provide a practical overview of the clinical presentation and treatment of adolescent BDD. We delineate the core features of BDD in adolescents and provide insights into current recommended treatments, namely cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and their evidence base. We discuss ways in which families and schools can actively contribute to CBT to optimize outcomes, and we provide clinical examples to illustrate key approaches. Lastly, we discuss adaptations that can be made in CBT to accommodate varying developmental profiles.