Visual training program for body dysmorphic disorder: A new treatment trial

About this study

We are conducting a new treatment trial involving a visual training program designed for individuals with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). This is based on research that individuals with body dysmorphic disorder can view certain images in a different way to those without the disorder, which can maintain or worsen symptoms.

Research TeamFrancesca Beilharz
InstitutionSwinburne University
Project Start Date1 May 2024
Project End Date31 October 2024
ParticipantsTo participate in the study, you must:
- have a primary diagnosis of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD)
- be 18 to 65 years old
- speak English as your preferred language
- have no history of neurological or eye conditions
- be willing to attend ten weekly sessions at Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn campus.
What is InvolvedParticipating will involve completing pre- and post-assessments, as well as attending weekly sessions over a period of ten weeks with a trained therapist. All participants will be reimbursed $50 for the pre- and post-assessments for their time and any travel expenses.
The assessments include:

clinical interview
eye tracking tasks
social cognition tasks
questionnaires.

The 10-week training program consists of three phases:

1. general visual training
2. face-specific visual training
3. self-perception visual training using mirrors.
LocationMelbourne
Contact Details

For further information, please contact Doctoral Student Researcher Francesca Beilharz via fbeilharz@swinburne.edu.au or +61 3 9214 5614.

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