Egocentric and allocentric fears in olfactory reference syndrome

Abstract

Olfactory reference syndrome (ORS) is characterized by a false preoccupation that one has a foul body odor. Scarce systematic data on ORS exist, which has thwarted its diagnostic classification and conceptualization. Western and Eastern conceptual models of ORS emphasize different core fears as central to the disorder. Western conceptualizations emphasize a focus on one's body odor embarrassing oneself (egocentric fears) whereas Eastern conceptualizations emphasize a focus on one's body odor offending others (allocentric fears). The aim of the present Internet study (N = 252) was to determine whether ORS presents with egocentric core fears (supporting Western models), allocentric core fears (supporting Eastern models), or a combination of fear types (supporting a blend of Western and Eastern conceptualizations). Results showed that the majority (58.7%) of ORS participants endorsed both egocentric and allocentric fears. Fears did not differ significantly by culture. Those with both egocentric and allocentric fears had more severe ORS symptoms than those with only egocentric or allocentric fears. Taken together, results provide preliminary evidence that culture-bound definitions of ORS may be overly-restrictive. Rather, individuals in this sample present with symptoms that span across both conceptualizations. Results provide novel empirical evidence with which to hone conceptual models of ORS.