Perfectionism and selective attention predict dysmorphic concern in an Australian university population

Abstract

Objective

There is a paucity of research investigating the underlying aetiological mechanisms contributing to dysmorphic concern. In the present study, we used a multidimensional measure of perfectionism and a dot‐probe task, borrowed from the dysmorphic concern and body dysmorphic disorder literature, to assess associations between subtypes of perfectionism (i.e., concerns and strivings), selective attention towards target word stimuli (i.e., DC‐body, DC‐negative, and DC‐positive words), and dysmorphic concern. This was the first study to simultaneously examine these predictors and to investigate specific underlying selective attention mechanisms using probes and stimuli relevant to dysmorphic concern. Informed by current theories, we hypothesised that perfectionistic concerns and/or strivings and attention bias to target stimuli would be significantly associated with dysmorphic concern.

Method

Fifty‐seven students recruited from an Australian university completed the dot‐probe task and self‐report measures for perfectionism and dysmorphic concern.

Results

Doubts about actions (perfectionistic concerns), or a perfectionistic need to check details, and attention bias towards the DC‐positive words (e.g., pretty, attractive, chiselled) predicted dysmorphic concern in men and women. Perfectionism predicted most of the variance.

Conclusions

Perfectionism and selective attention predicted dysmorphic concern, which may serve to inform the development of future dot‐probe paradigms and early intervention programs targeting at‐risk populations endorsing clinically significant dysmorphic concerns.

Key words:

• body dysmorphic disorder
• detail‐oriented checking
• dot‐probe task
• dysmorphic concern
• perfectionism
• selective attention

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors thank Paul Douglas from Flinders University for his assistance with the design and execution of the dot‐probe task.