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Pathologic hairpulling, skin picking, and nail biting.

Antje Bohne¹, Nancy Keuthen, Sabine Wilhelm

¹Institute of Psychology I, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany.

Annals of Clinical Psychiatry : Official Journal of the American Academy of Clinical Psychiatrists

|January 13, 2006

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Pathologic hairpulling, skin picking, and nail biting are common yet underrecognized behaviors causing significant distress. Research suggests these conditions may share diagnostic similarities, warranting further investigation for effective treatments.

Area of Science:

Psychiatry
Behavioral Science
Dermatology

Background:

Pathologic hairpulling (HP), skin picking (SP), and nail biting (NB) are repetitive, intentional behaviors causing physical damage and distress.
These widespread behaviors are underrepresented in psychiatric literature.

Purpose of the Study:

To review current research on HP, SP, and NB.
To highlight similarities and differences between these conditions.
To advocate for their potential joint diagnostic categorization.

Main Methods:

Literature review of existing research findings on HP, SP, and NB.

Main Results:

HP, SP, and NB share similar phenomenology, triggers, consequences, and functionality.

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These behaviors are often underrecognized due to patient shame and embarrassment.

Physical signs related to these disorders require practitioner attention for accurate diagnosis.

Conclusions:

HP, SP, and NB exist on a continuum from mild to severe and are frequently underrecognized.
Further research into the etiology of these conditions is crucial.
Effective, long-lasting treatments and prevention strategies are needed.