Understanding DSM-5 Skin Picking: A Comprehensive Overview


Intro
Skin picking disorder, clinically known as excoriation disorder, is a condition that involves repetitive and compulsive picking of the skin, leading to noticeable damage and personal distress. As part of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), this disorder has gained recognition in the field of mental health. Understanding the nuances of this disorder is essential for students, researchers, educators, and professionals alike. This knowledge not only helps in recognizing the problem but also in formulating effective treatment strategies.
Key Concepts and Terminology
Definition of Key Terms
To fully grasp skin picking disorder, it is important to clarify some key terms:
- Excoriation Disorder: This is the formal name for skin picking that results in skin lesions or damage.
- Compulsive Behavior: Actions performed repetitively, often without conscious control, typically done to relieve anxiety or tension.
- DSM-5: A manual used by mental health professionals to diagnose mental disorders.
Concepts Explored in the Article
This article will cover several core aspects of skin picking disorder:
- Diagnostic Criteria: The specific requirements set forth in the DSM-5 to classify this condition.
- Psychological Mechanisms: An examination of why individuals may engage in skin picking behaviors.
- Prevalence: Insights into how common this disorder is across different populations.
- Treatment Options: A discussion on various therapeutic approaches available to manage and treat skin picking disorder.
Findings and Discussion
Main Findings
Research indicates that skin picking disorder can be linked to underlying mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. It is not merely a cosmetic issue but a serious mental health concern that affects many individuals.
Additionally, experts have noted that individuals affected often face significant social embarrassment and isolation. The impact of skin picking extends beyond the physical, influencing emotional well-being and quality of life.
Potential Areas for Future Research
Future research can delve into various unexplored areas including:
- Longitudinal Studies: Investigating the long-term effects of skin picking and the efficacy of different treatments over time.
- Cultural Differences: Exploring how skin picking is perceived and treated in diverse cultures may provide new insights.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Developing tailored interventions that address individual needs based on psychological assessments.
"Understanding the complexities of skin picking disorder is crucial for practitioners aiming to provide appropriate care and support to their patients."
By deepening our comprehension of the DSM-5 classification of skin picking disorder, we inform better clinical practices and foster a supportive environment for those who struggle with it.
Prelims to Skin Picking Disorder
Skin picking disorder, often known as excoriation disorder, is a condition that warrants careful examination within the DSM-5 framework. Understanding this disorder is crucial, as it impacts many individuals, leading to both physical and emotional consequences. By delving into skin picking behaviors, we can comprehend the challenges faced by those affected. This knowledge can promote empathy and support, while also guiding effective treatment methods.
Definition and Overview
Skin picking disorder, as defined in the DSM-5, encapsulates a repetitive behavior characterized by the act of picking at one’s skin. This behavior can lead to significant tissue damage and emotional distress. Individuals often feel compelled to engage in skin picking to manage feelings of anxiety, boredom, or stress. It is essential to recognize that this is not merely a cosmetic issue. It affects overall quality of life.
Persons experiencing this disorder may find themselves trapped in a cycle of picking, often not realizing the harm it causes until they face serious damage or infection. As per the DSM-5 guidelines, this condition stands out by its diagnostic criteria, which include the inability to stop the behavior despite being aware of its negative effects.
The consequences of skin picking can range from mild irritation to severe psychological distress. Factors such as social isolation and low self-esteem often accompany this disorder, influencing every aspect of a person's life.
Historical Context
The understanding of skin picking disorder has evolved significantly over the years. Historically, similar conditions were documented under terms like 'dermatillomania.' The recognition of skin picking as a distinct disorder began to gain traction only in the early 20th century. Previous diagnoses often categorized skin picking alongside obsessive-compulsive disorder or regarded it as a mere habit.
The shift towards recognizing it as a separate entity within the DSM-5 in 2013 marks a pivotal moment for mental health understanding. This change allowed for better-targeted therapies and broader awareness. Expanding research into the psychological and neurological aspects of the disorder has opened new avenues for understanding. This context underscores the need for ongoing dialogue and education surrounding skin picking, promoting a more supportive approach for those affected.
Diagnostic Criteria in the DSM-5
The diagnostic criteria outlined in the DSM-5 serve as a cornerstone for understanding skin picking disorder. This section provides healthcare professionals, researchers, and interested readers with the necessary framework to identify and diagnose this condition accurately. Diagnostic criteria ensure that individuals receive the appropriate support and treatment, while also helping to distinguish skin picking disorder from other psychological issues.
Accurate diagnosis is essential for several reasons. First, it facilitates effective treatment planning tailored to the individual's specific needs. Second, it contributes to the broader understanding of mental health disorders, allowing for research and study that can lead to better therapeutic approaches. Moreover, recognizing the significance of these criteria advances awareness, reducing stigma around skin picking disorder and encouraging more individuals to seek help.
Criteria for Diagnosis
The DSM-5 specifies a set of criteria for diagnosing skin picking disorder, classified under the category of obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. For a diagnosis to be made, the following criteria must be met:
- Recurrent Skin Picking: The individual engages in recurrent skin picking, resulting in skin lesions. This behavior can include picking at acne, scabs, or healthy skin, leading to possible scarring and infections.
- Attempts to Reduce or Stop: The individual has made repeated efforts to decrease or stop the skin picking behavior but has been unsuccessful in doing so.
- Distress or Impairment: The skin picking behavior causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
- Exclusion of Other Disorders: The skin picking is not attributable to another mental disorder (e.g., dermatillomania, which is not classified in DSM-5) or a medical condition (e.g., eczema).


The acknowledgment of these criteria plays a pivotal role in the identification of skin picking disorder, allowing clinicians to differentiate it from other possible conditions with similar manifestations.
Differential Diagnosis
Differential diagnosis is crucial in a clinical setting. It involves distinguishing skin picking disorder from other psychological or dermatological conditions that may present with similar symptoms. Some of the notable conditions to consider are:
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): While there is overlap in compulsive behaviors, skin picking disorder is specifically related to the act of picking skin rather than compulsions to conduct other tasks.
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD): Individuals with BDD may pick at their skin due to perceived flaws. However, their primary concern is the dysmorphia, whereas skin picking leads to focused behavior that results in skin lesions.
- Excoriation Disorder (Skin Picking Disorder): It is crucial to note that this is the same behavioral condition, but professionals must ensure that it is not part of another psychiatric disorder.
"Diagnosing skin picking disorder accurately requires careful attention to the clinical picture and the underlying motivations for the behavior."
The ability to differentiate between these disorders is significant because it has implications for treatment. Each condition may require different therapeutic approaches and perspectives, thus stressing the importance of thorough assessment.
Psychological Mechanisms Underlying Skin Picking
Understanding the psychological mechanisms underlying skin picking is essential for comprehending the disorder in a more substantive way. These mechanisms reveal the complex interplay between the mind and behavior, illustrating how emotional responses, cognitive patterns, and impulsivity contribute to skin picking disorder. Identifying these factors not only aids in diagnosis but also guides appropriate interventions and treatments. This section will delve into specific elements such as emotional triggers, cognitive processes, and impulsivity factors that play a pivotal role in skin picking behavior.
Emotional Triggers
Emotional triggers are significant catalysts for skin picking behaviors. Individuals often engage in skin picking as a coping mechanism to deal with negative emotions, such as anxiety or stress. When faced with overwhelming feelings, the act of picking skin can offer a temporary relief.
Some common emotional triggers include:
- Anxiety: High levels of anxiety can lead to compulsive skin picking as a method of self-soothing.
- Stress: Acute or chronic stress often prompts this behavior as individuals seek to manage their feelings.
- Boredom: Lack of engagement or stimulation may lead to skin picking as a way to fill the void.
Recognizing these triggers is critical for effective treatment. Unwinding the connection between these emotions and skin picking can facilitate targeted therapeutic strategies.
Cognitive Processes
Cognitive processes play a crucial role in the manifestation of skin picking disorder. Negative thought patterns can influence behavior significantly. For instance, individuals may engage in distorted thinking about their appearance, leading them to obsessively examine their skin for perceived flaws. This scrutiny often escalates into compulsive picking.
Several cognitive components contribute, including:
- Catastrophizing: Viewing minor skin irregularities as catastrophic can exacerbate the urge to pick.
- Negative Self-Talk: Internal criticism may drive the behavior, as individuals seek to externally manifest their self-perceived imperfections.
- Distraction: Skin picking may serve as a means to divert attention from distressing thoughts or feelings, promoting a cycle of behavior that reinforces the disorder.
Addressing these cognitive patterns through therapeutic methods can break this cycle and reduce skin picking.
Impulsivity Factors
Impulsivity is another vital mechanism associated with skin picking disorder. Many individuals exhibit high levels of impulsivity, often acting on urges without considering consequences. This impulsivity complicates the difficulty individuals have in resisting the urge to pick, reinforcing the behavior over time.
Factors influencing impulsivity include:
- Difficulties in Emotional Regulation: Individuals may struggle to manage their emotions effectively, leading to impulsive skin picking.
- Sensation Seeking: A desire for sensory experiences may drive individuals to pick, creating temporary sensory stimulation.
- Triggers in Routine: Certain environments or situations might evoke impulsive behaviors, making it critical to identify and modify these triggers.
Recognizing impulsivity as a factor can inform treatment approaches, especially those focusing on impulse control and emotional regulation strategies.
Understanding the psychological mechanisms of skin picking illuminates paths toward effective treatment, emphasizing the importance of addressing emotional, cognitive, and impulsive elements in individuals' lives.
Prevalence and Demographics
Understanding the prevalence and demographics of skin picking disorder is crucial. This knowledge helps in recognizing the scope of the disorder, enabling both professionals and the general public to appreciate its impact. By grasping who is affected and how often, we can tailor interventions, raise awareness, and improve support systems. Insights into demographic trends also inform future research directions and potential prevention strategies.
Global Prevalence Rates
Skin picking disorder, while often overlooked, exhibits a significant prevalence rate globally. Research indicates that the prevalence of skin picking disorder can range from 1.4% to 5.4% in the general population. This variability is influenced by factors such as region, cultural attitudes towards bodily habits, and the diagnostic criteria applied in studies.
According to the DSM-5, skin picking disorder is categorized under obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. Many cases remain underreported, as individuals may not seek help due to shame or misunderstanding of their behavior. Thus, actual prevalence may be higher than current statistics suggest.
Age and Gender Trends
Demographics associated with skin picking disorder reveal distinct trends in age and gender. Studies show that onset typically occurs in adolescence or early adulthood. However, many individuals may not recognize their behavior as problematic until later in life.
In terms of gender distribution, some research suggests that women are more likely to be affected than men, with ratios indicating a 1.5 to 3 times higher prevalence in females. This disparity could arise from various factors, including differences in coping mechanisms and societal pressures related to appearance. Such trends highlight the need for gender-sensitive approaches in treatment and awareness campaigns.
The understanding of demographics aids in developing targeted programs and enhancing the overall treatment landscape for skin picking disorder.
Comorbid Conditions


The presence of comorbid conditions significantly impacts the understanding and treatment of skin picking disorder. Comorbidity refers to the occurrence of one or more additional disorders alongside a primary disorder. In the context of skin picking disorder, this has important implications for both diagnosis and treatment. When practitioners recognize that skin picking is often linked with other psychological issues, it allows for a more holistic approach to care and better outcomes for individuals.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders frequently coexist with skin picking disorder. Individuals may engage in skin picking behaviors as a means of managing or expressing anxiety. This connection is often established through processes such as avoidance or coping mechanisms. For example, a person may pick at their skin when feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, which temporarily alleviates the tension, leading to a cycle of behavior that can escalate. The comorbid nature of anxiety disorders and skin picking highlights the need for targeted interventions.
A thorough understanding of the relationship between these disorders can aid mental health professionals in tailoring treatments. Approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be beneficial. They not only focus on altering the behavior of skin picking but also on addressing the underlying anxiety. Doing so can create a more effective therapeutic environment.
Depressive Disorders
Depressive disorders are another common comorbidity seen with skin picking disorder. Many individuals with skin picking also experience symptoms of depression, such as low mood, lack of energy, and feelings of worthlessness. The act of skin picking can exacerbate depressive symptoms, leading to a negative feedback loop.
For instance, skin damage from picking may lead to embarrassment or shame, further deepening feelings of depression. Addressing this duality in treatment settings is crucial. Therapeutic strategies need to include support for both skin picking behaviors and depressive symptoms to break the cycle. |
"Understanding the interplay between skin picking disorder and depressive disorders can significantly inform treatment strategies."
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Lastly, the relationship between skin picking disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an area of particular interest. Skin picking can be viewed as a compulsive behavior, akin to the compulsions observed in OCD. Individuals may feel an uncontrollable urge to pick at their skin, much like those with OCD feel compelled to perform repetitive rituals.
Diagnosing and treating skin picking disorder thus often requires considering OCD symptoms. Integrated treatment modalities, which may involve both pharmacological and psychotherapeutic strategies, can be beneficial. For example, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) may help in managing both conditions by addressing serotonin imbalances.
By recognizing and treating these comorbid conditions, mental health professionals can enhance the overall care and support provided to individuals struggling with skin picking disorder.
Treatment Options for Skin Picking Disorder
Treatment for skin picking disorder, also known as excoriation disorder, is essential in addressing this often debilitating condition. Effective treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by skin picking. The strategies employed must cater to the unique challenges that this disorder poses, as well as the underlying psychological issues. Both psychotherapeutic approaches and medication management play crucial roles in comprehensive treatment plans.
Psychotherapeutic Approaches
Psychotherapy serves as a primary method in the management of skin picking. Several therapeutic modalities can assist individuals in recognizing their triggers, developing coping strategies, and ultimately reducing their skin picking behaviors.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is widely regarded as one of the most effective treatments for skin picking disorder. One significant aspect of CBT is its focus on understanding and modifying thought patterns that contribute to compulsive behaviors. This therapy helps clients identify the situations and feelings that lead to skin picking. By addressing these cognitive distortions, individuals learn healthier, alternative responses. CBT is beneficial due to its structured nature and clear goals, fostering a sense of control.
A unique feature of CBT is the use of behavioral techniques. These techniques help clients practice new skills in real-world situations. They may include exposure therapy or practice implementing competing responses towards urges to pick. Advantages of CBT include its evidence-based framework and the support of diverse research findings. However, one potential disadvantage is that some individuals may find the structured, goal-oriented approach challenging.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) offers a different approach to treating skin picking disorder. This therapy emphasizes acceptance of thoughts and feelings instead of attempting to control or eliminate them. ACT encourages individuals to connect with their core values while committing to behavioral changes that align with those values.
A key characteristic of ACT is the focus on mindfulness. This practice allows individuals to become more aware of the current moment and to observe thoughts without judgment. This non-reactive stance is particularly beneficial in addressing the urges that accompany skin picking. One unique feature of ACT is its willingness to incorporate both acceptance and change, promoting psychological flexibility. Advantages of ACT include fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and promoting self-compassion. However, as with CBT, some may struggle with the abstract concepts involved in ACT.
Medication Management
For some individuals, medication management can complement psychotherapeutic approaches in treating skin picking disorder. Pharmacological interventions can help reduce anxiety and impulsivity, which may alleviate the severity of skin picking episodes.
SSRIs and Other Pharmacological Interventions
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) have shown promise in managing skin picking disorder. These medications are primarily used to treat anxiety and depressive disorders and have been found to reduce compulsive behaviors. The key characteristic of SSRIs is their ability to balance serotonin levels in the brain, which can impact mood and impulse control. SSRIs are considered beneficial in this context due to their long track record and extensive research support.
Unique features of SSRIs include their relatively favorable side-effect profile compared to older antidepressants. They can often be well-tolerated by individuals with skin picking disorder. However, there are some disadvantages, such as the potential for delayed onset of effects and variations in individual responses to medication.
Self-Help Strategies
Self-help strategies play a crucial role in managing skin picking disorder. They empower individuals to take control of their actions and alleviate symptoms. These strategies can be beneficial in conjunction with professional treatment or as standalone approaches. The emphasis here is on self-regulation, personal insight, and adopting healthy habits.
A few key elements enhance the effectiveness of self-help strategies. Awareness is essential. Being conscious of the urge to pick at the skin can help individuals intervene before engaging in the behavior. Additionally, environmental modifications can reduce triggers that lead to skin picking. Simple changes, such as keeping hands busy or redesigning personal spaces to minimize opportunities for picking, can lead to noticeable improvements.
Benefits of self-help strategies include improved emotional health, better coping mechanisms, and reduced frequency of skin picking episodes. It also fosters a sense of accomplishment and independence. Individuals can find support through various online forums, such as reddit.com, where they can share experiences and tips.
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness practices form a solid foundation for self-help in managing skin picking disorder. These techniques focus on being present in the moment, often leading to reduced anxiety and improved emotional regulation. Mindfulness may involve techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or simply paying attention to one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment.


Incorporating mindfulness can provide individuals with valuable coping tools. For instance, when an urge to pick arises, practicing deep breathing can help ground the individual and reduce impulsivity. Furthermore, it promotes self-compassion, allowing individuals to forgive themselves for lapses and encouraging progression rather than perfection.
Habit Reversal Training
Habit Reversal Training is another effective self-help strategy for individuals dealing with skin picking disorder. This technique aims to replace the skin-picking behavior with a healthier alternative. The concept involves three main steps: awareness training, competing response training, and social support.
- Awareness Training: This first step requires individuals to recognize when they feel the urge to pick. Keeping a journal or utilizing apps can help track triggers and patterns.
- Competing Response Training: After awareness is established, the next step is to identify and practice a competing response. For example, if someone tends to pick while watching TV, they might replace this behavior by squeezing a stress ball or engaging in another hands-on activity.
- Social Support: Seeking support from family or friends can reinforce the habit changes. Sharing goals and strategies with others increases accountability and provides encouragement.
Impact on Quality of Life
The impact of skin picking disorder on an individual's quality of life is profound and multifaceted. It directly affects one’s social interactions, self-esteem, and overall well-being. Understanding these aspects is crucial for practitioners and individuals seeking to navigate and manage the challenges posed by skin picking.
Social Consequences
For many who suffer from skin picking disorder, the social implications can be significant. Individuals may experience feelings of embarrassment and shame due to visible scars or skin lesions, which can lead to avoiding social situations. This avoidance can create a cycle of isolation and can exacerbate feelings of loneliness. As relationships are essential for emotional support, the social consequences can compound the psychological burden.
Evidence indicates that people with skin picking may struggle in both personal and professional environments due to their symptoms.
In workplaces, individuals might hesitate to engage in team activities or avoid meeting new colleagues. This can hinder career growth and lead to a lack of professional fulfillment. Moreover, social media can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, as individuals may compare their experiences with seemingly perfect lives of others. The fear of judgment can deepen anxiety, making it even more difficult to engage socially.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
The emotional consequences of skin picking disorder extend into various domains of life. Anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are common among individuals dealing with this condition. The relentless urge to pick skin often serves as a coping mechanism for underlying emotional distress.
Over time, the repetitive behavior may lead to a sense of loss of control. Individuals might feel helpless as they struggle to resist the urge to pick, which can lead to overwhelming guilt and shame after each episode. Additionally, chronic skin picking can manifest in body dysmorphic issues, where individuals become overly fixated on perceived flaws, which further diminishes self-worth.
A study suggested that anxiety disorders often coexist with skin picking, highlighting the interconnected nature of emotional health and behavioral issues.
In summary, the implications of skin picking disorder on quality of life cannot be understated. It is crucial for both individuals and healthcare providers to recognize these challenges, as addressing the social and emotional dimensions can play a pivotal role in effective management and treatment. Understanding one's experience is the first step towards seeking help, ultimately fostering better relationships and enhancing overall quality of life.
Future Directions in Research
The study of skin picking disorder, as outlined in the DSM-5, is an evolving field. Future research directions aim not only to deepen understanding of the disorder's underlying mechanisms but also to refine treatment approaches. This is vital since advancements in knowledge can lead to more effective interventions, ultimately improving the quality of life for affected individuals. It can also contribute to destigmatizing the disorder, fostering a supportive environment for those suffering from it.
Advancements in Understanding Etiology
Research focused on the etiology of skin picking disorder is crucial. Current theories suggest that a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors may contribute to its development. Identifying specific biological markers linked to the disorder could provide deeper insights into why certain individuals are predisposed to skin picking. This could lead to tailored interventions based on an individual’s unique biological makeup.
Exploring the role of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, is also essential. These chemicals are known to influence mood and behavior. Studies could investigate how imbalances in these neurotransmitters affect skin picking behaviors, thus allowing for targeted pharmacological treatments.
Additionally, longitudinal studies examining the onset and progression of skin picking could yield important insights. Such research could reveal critical developmental periods when individuals are most vulnerable to developing the disorder, informing early intervention strategies.
Innovative Treatment Modalities
As understanding of skin picking disorder grows, so does the potential for innovative treatment modalities. For instance, there’s a growing interest in utilizing technology to aid treatment. Mobile apps that help monitor and manage compulsive behaviors can empower individuals to track their skin picking patterns. This data could be crucial for therapists when tailoring treatment plans to meet the specific needs of their clients.
Furthermore, emerging approaches that integrate traditional psychotherapeutic methods with mindfulness and behavioral techniques show promise. For example, acceptance and commitment therapy is gaining traction as a method to help individuals cope with urges to pick by fostering a non-judgmental awareness of thoughts and feelings.
"Innovations in treatment modalities not only provide new avenues for managing skin picking disorder but also emphasize the importance of patient autonomy and engagement in their recovery process."
Research into group therapy formats, which promote support among individuals with similar experiences, might also enhance treatment outcomes. This could offer a communal atmosphere for healing and sharing coping strategies.
Ending
The conclusion serves as a critical element in synthesizing the multifaceted discussions presented throughout the article. It consolidates the findings and provides a clear summary for readers who may seek a comprehensive understanding of skin picking disorder as defined by the DSM-5. This final section encourages dialogue and reflection, which is essential for both practitioners and individuals affected by the disorder.
Summary of Key Findings
The examination of skin picking disorder reveals several key findings:
- Skin picking, or excoriation disorder, is characterized by recurrent skin picking leading to lesions and significant distress.
- The diagnostic criteria are well-defined in the DSM-5, enabling accurate identification and diagnosis.
- Psychological mechanisms such as emotional triggers, cognitive distortions, and impulsivity are crucial in understanding the disorder.
- Prevalence varies globally, with notable trends linked to age and gender.
- Comorbid conditions, particularly anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, frequently co-occur, highlighting the complexity of treatment.
- An array of treatment options exists, including cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management, providing various avenues for intervention.
- Self-help strategies also play a vital role in managing symptoms effectively.
"Skin picking disorder is more than just a habit; it can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, requiring comprehensive treatment strategies."
These findings not only shed light on the nature of the disorder but also underscore the importance of continued research and education on this topic.
Implications for Practice
The implications of understanding skin picking disorder extend far beyond the clinical setting. For mental health professionals, recognizing the nuances of this disorder is paramount in ensuring effective treatment plans are designed. Practitioners are encouraged to:
- Conduct thorough assessments to understand the emotional, psychological, and social aspects affecting individuals who engage in skin picking behavior.
- Integrate various treatment modalities, blending psychotherapeutic approaches with medication as needed.
- Promote self-help strategies among patients to foster autonomy and reduced reliance on external support.
- Address comorbid conditions holistically, ensuring that any concurrent disorders, like anxiety or depression, are treated alongside.
- Facilitate a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and cope with social stigmatization.
Understanding the implications of these practices contributes to a more compassionate and informed approach to treatment, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided to individuals experiencing skin picking disorder.