In which disorder is there recurrent and compulsive hair pulling?

Trichotillomania is characterized by the recurrent and compulsive pulling out of one’s hair, leading to noticeable hair loss. This behavior often serves as a way for individuals to relieve tension or anxiety, and it can occur in response to stress or as a means of self-soothing. Those affected may pull hair from various areas, including the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes. The condition is categorized under the obsessive-compulsive and related disorders in the DSM-5-TR, emphasizing the compulsive nature of the hair-pulling behavior.

In contrast, Body Dysmorphic Disorder involves a preoccupation with perceived flaws in physical appearance, leading to compulsive behaviors aimed at fixing or hiding those perceived defects. Hoarding Disorder is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding possessions, leading to clutter and impairment in functioning, while Excoriation Disorder involves recurrent skin picking that results in visible damage to the skin. Each of these disorders has distinct symptoms and behaviors that differentiate them from Trichotillomania.