What does this Body Dysmorphic Concerns Test measure?

This Body Dysmorphic Concerns Test explores how often, over approximately the last month, you experience preoccupation with perceived flaws in your appearance, repeated checking and comparison, avoidance or camouflage of your body, and distress or interference related to these concerns.

Is this Body Dysmorphic Concerns Test a diagnosis of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

No. This test is a self-help screening tool focused on common body-dysmorphic-related symptom dimensions. It cannot confirm or exclude a diagnosis of Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Only a qualified mental health professional can make a diagnosis after a full assessment.

What should I do if one or more dimension scores are high?

Higher scores on one or more dimensions suggest that body-image-related concerns may be frequent, distressing or time-consuming. If these experiences significantly affect your daily life, self-esteem, relationships or safety, consider seeking a professional evaluation, ideally with someone experienced in body image concerns and cognitive-behavioural treatments for BDD.

Body Dysmorphic Concerns Test – Appearance, Checking, Avoidance & Distress

How the test works

You will see one statement at a time. Answer based on your experience over approximately the last month. All questions are required.

What this test explores

The test focuses on how often, over roughly the last month, you experience:

Appearance preoccupation – frequent, repetitive thoughts about perceived flaws or defects in how you look.
Checking & comparison – repeated mirror checking, selfies, reassurance seeking and comparing yourself to others.
Avoidance & camouflage – hiding or covering up perceived flaws, avoiding situations, photos or mirrors.
Distress & interference – shame, anxiety or low mood related to appearance concerns, and interference with daily life.

Many people sometimes dislike aspects of their appearance. In body dysmorphic concerns, these reactions tend to be intense, persistent and tied to strong self-criticism or fear of how others see you.

How to use this result

Seeing body dysmorphic concerns in terms of dimensions can reduce shame: you are not simply “vain” or “too sensitive”, you may be dealing with a recognisable pattern that can be worked with. Different dimensions can also respond differently to treatment.

You can use this profile to notice which dimensions are most active for you and to guide conversations with professionals about cognitive-behavioural approaches for BDD, medication options and practical supports that match your specific patterns.

Body Dysmorphic Concerns Test – FAQ

Why focus on body dysmorphic concerns instead of general low self-esteem?

While low self-esteem can involve many areas of life, body dysmorphic concerns are specifically about how you look. They involve a strong focus on perceived flaws, repeated checking or avoidance, and significant distress or interference.

Can I have body dysmorphic concerns without a formal BDD diagnosis?

Yes. Many people experience significant body-image-related distress that does not meet full diagnostic criteria. This test can help you notice patterns and decide whether it might be useful to talk to a professional.

Can this test replace a professional assessment?

No. The test is a self-reflection and psychoeducation tool. It cannot capture all relevant information (such as history, other conditions or risk factors). If you are worried, bring your results to a qualified professional and use them as a starting point for a fuller conversation.

Body Dysmorphic Concerns Test