Body Dysmorphic Disorder Among Young Individuals: Prevalence and Psychological Correlates

Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is an emerging mental health concern among young adults, particularly in urban settings where social media exposure intensifies appearance-related pressures. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of BDD among individuals aged 18–25 years in Vadodara and to examine its association with cognitive-behavioral patterns, psychiatric comorbidities, and social media influence. A cross-sectional study was conducted among college students using validated self-report questionnaires to assess BDD symptoms, obsessive–compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, stress, suicidal ideation, and patterns of digital media use. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, chi-square tests, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis. Approximately 10% of participants screened positive for BDD. Individuals with BDD demonstrated significantly higher levels of obsessive–compulsive symptoms, depression, anxiety, stress, suicidal ideation, and negative social media impact compared to those without BDD (p < 0.05). Strong positive correlations were observed between BDD severity and psychological distress, supporting a cognitive-behavioral framework of the disorder. Social media exposure appeared to reinforce distorted self-image and maladaptive behaviors, contributing to symptom severity. The findings highlight the importance of early identification of BDD in academic and primary care settings. Routine screening, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and media literacy interventions are recommended to address both core symptoms and associated psychological comorbidities. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to reduce unnecessary cosmetic procedures and improve mental health outcomes. Limitations include the cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported measures. Future longitudinal and culturally sensitive studies using clinical interviews are warranted.