Psychosomatic and Dysmorphophobia
摘要
This chapter analyses how gender differences influence the diagnosis and treatment of Somatic symptom disorder (SSD) and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Women, due to biological and social factors, are more prone to developing SSD and somatizing their distress, often leading to misdiagnoses. Men, on the other hand, tend to minimize their symptoms, complicating accurate diagnosis. Body dysmorphic disorder manifests differently by gender: women often focus on concerns such as weight, hips, skin, and areas like the breasts and thighs, while men tend to obsess over muscle size and genitals. These disorders reflect societal pressures tied to beauty ideals, where women are historically associated with youth and fertility, while men prioritize physical strength and musculature.