DSM-5 criteria - preoccupation with perceived defects in physical appearance.
The Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a psychosocial scoring tool used in paediatric practice. DSM-5 criteria - preoccupation with perceived defects in physical appearance. It scores 4 criteria and interprets the total across 2 bands, so the number always arrives with the severity it implies rather than on its own. In PediAid each criterion is shown as a labelled option with the weight it carries, so the total can be checked rather than taken on trust.
4. They are Preoccupation with ≥1 perceived defect in appearance not observable or slight to others; Repetitive behaviours (mirror checking, grooming, skin picking, reassurance seeking) or mental acts (comparing) in response; Preoccupation causes clinically significant distress or impairment; Preoccupation is not better explained by concerns with body fat/weight in an eating disorder.
The total is interpreted as: any score - Below threshold: not all criteria met; 4 criteria met or more - Threshold met: all criteria met - consistent with body dysmorphic disorder. Specify muscle dysmorphia and degree of insight; screen for depression and suicidality.
No. It is a structured way to record and communicate severity. A clinician concerned about a child should act on that concern regardless of the total.
DSM-5 threshold: 4 or more of the 4 criteria listed.
Yes. Score definitions are bundled with the PediAid app, so the score computes without a connection.