MCQ Detailed View

Dermatophagia is a psychological condition in which a person has a compulsive habit of biting the skin, most commonly around the fingers, knuckles, or nails. It is considered a body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB), which means it involves repeated, self-inflicted damage to the body, often triggered by stress, anxiety, or boredom.

The name “Dermatophagia” comes from Greek: “derma” means skin, and “phagia” means to eat. Although people with this condition usually do not consume the skin, they often bite it to the point of injury. It can lead to open wounds, infections, bleeding, or thickened skin around the affected areas.

This condition is psychological in nature because it involves behaviors that are linked to emotional or mental states, rather than physical diseases or skin disorders. It is often related to other mental health conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, or stress-related disorders.

Now let’s clarify why the other options are incorrect:

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  Physiological refers to normal bodily functions, such as digestion or breathing. Dermatophagia is not a natural or automatic function.

  
  


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  Dermatological refers to diseases of the skin, like eczema or psoriasis. While dermatophagia affects the skin, its root cause is not a skin disease but a behavioral one.

  
  


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  Genital refers to the reproductive organs and is completely unrelated.

  
  

In summary, dermatophagia is a psychological condition that affects behavior and is usually triggered by emotional or mental stress. It should be addressed through behavioral therapy, counseling, or medical support when severe.

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