Help-seeking attitudes and experiences in individuals affected by skin picking

Publication date: Available online 20 September 2019Source: Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related DisordersAuthor(s): Christina Gallinat, Markus Moessner, Holger A. Haenssle, Julia K. Winkler, Matthias Backenstrass, Stephanie BauerAbstractSkin picking disorder is accompanied by substantial psychosocial impairment and requires adequate treatment. However, literature on help-seeking attitudes and healthcare utilization in affected individuals is scarce. Therefore, the present study sought to investigate help-seeking behavior and experiences, as well as attitudes and expectations towards healthcare utilization in individuals with skin picking.The current sample consisted of 133 affected individuals (mean age: M = 26.67, SD = 6.42; 93.2% female), enrolled in a pilot study examining an Internet-based self-help program for skin picking. Data were assessed via self-report within the online baseline assessment prior to randomization. Most participants reported a positive helpfulness expectancy towards professional support for skin picking, and 42% (N = 56) had sought help in at least one professional contact point. While psychotherapists and psychologists were commonly rated as helpful (76.0%/63.2%), dermatological counseling and treatments were mostly not perceived as helpful (83.9%). Common reasons for not seeking help were a low perceived need for treatment, insecurity about treatment providers and their expertise, as well as shame.The present results suggest tha...
Source: Journal of Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders - Category: Psychiatry Source Type: research