[Some reflections on body dysmorphic disorder by proxy]

T Gofers1, I Verhagen, T K Bouman

  • 1GGZ Oost Brabant, The Netherlands. atw.gofers@ggzoostbrabant.nl

Summary

Body dysmorphic disorder by proxy (BDDP) is a distressing condition impacting families. This case study shows cognitive behavior therapy and systemic interventions effectively reduced a patient's BDDP symptoms.

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