Do obsessive beliefs predict body image disturbance?

Abstract

The controversial re-classification of body dysmorphic disorder with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in the Obsessive-Compulsive Related Disorders chapter of the latest diagnostic statistical manual was based primarily on neuropsychological research and theory. However, little research has examined the extent to which cognitive variables known to be important in the development and maintenance OCD (e.g., “obsessive beliefs”) are related to body image disturbance (BID). The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that obsessive beliefs uniquely predict BID after controlling for other related variables. A total of 601 participants completed a battery of self-report measures of BID severity, obsessive beliefs, OCD symptoms, general distress, and pathological eating attitudes. As predicted, BID was positively correlated with all three obsessive belief domains. Contrary to hypotheses, only the need for perfectionism/certainty obsessive belief domain emerged as a significant unique predictor of BID. Limitations and potential implications for understanding, assessing, and treating BID-related conditions are discussed.