Body dysmorphic disorder, known as BDD, is a condition in which the sufferer fixates on perceived flaws in their appearance and develops obsessive habits to conceal or correct them.
The Risks
AI can pose dangers for those with BDD. While AI chatbots appear to offer reassurance, they often draw on content that is loaded with bias and promotes unrealistic standards of beauty. This can be especially harmful for teens and young adults already vulnerable to BDD or eating disorders.
The AI Model
AI’s algorithms are designed to keep users engaged, with often inappropriate content and sometimes advice that promotes unhealthy behaviours-from extreme dieting to cosmetic procedures. Because AI lacks empathy and context, it can be blunt, inaccurate and even hurtful, potentially worsening sufferers’ anxieties.
Talking Therapies
Reliance on AI for reassurance may make it harder for sufferers to break their habit of compulsive checking, creating a cycle of doubt and self-criticism. Counselling is an effective solution and across the UK mental health initiatives, such as the Plymouth Mental Health Collective, are addressing this problem. In fact, substantial numbers have undertaken mental health training courses Plymouth with providers such as tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/plymouth/. As a result some 5,000 people are now qualified to treat the results of trauma, one of the main triggers for BDD.
In the way it is designed and deployed, AI can perpetuate the societal obsession with appearance. Loved ones can offer support by emphasising emotions over physical appearance and encouraging genuine human connections. Validation from an algorithm is no substitute for empathy and understanding.
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