Obsessive Picking

By Mark Berman, Wed, July 27, 2011

Compulsive skin picking (CSP) is an obsessive-compulsive disorder in which a person constantly and sometimes mindlessly picks at their skin. CSP sufferers know they are doing something painful and self-defeating, but they continue to do it.

SkinPick.com writes:

One very tragic and equally confusing aspect of compulsive skin picking is that the subject finds comfort, pleasure, or emotional release in the very act of causing him- or herself pain. While knowing that the behavior is one that really needs to be stopped or avoided, the subject continues the behavior nevertheless.

It is not known what causes a person to pick at their skin, but experts say it is usually a symptom of some kind of current or past psychological trauma.

The site writes:

Obsessive-compulsive behaviors may be a way of shielding oneself against the pain being inflicted by an outside party. The reason for the compulsive picking may be to control pain coming from outside.

In this light, the subject places him- or herself in control of the pain. It may be the only avenue of control the subject feels is available. By personally causing the pain itself, the subject takes away or diminishes the extent of the pain that can be inflicted by an outside party.

Oddly, some people are not even aware they are doing it. Often times, another person will point out the picking, which the CPS sufferer is doing mindlessly while focused on another activity.

Skin picking is sort of a hidden problem. Doctors don't ask about it, and patients don't tell. It needs to be out in the open so people can get the help they need.

Free Treatment Assessment
Call Now—Help Available 24/7 (877) 331-9311

OCD Self Test

Do you or a loved one feel like you might have a problem with OCD?
Take the Self Test now to get more information.

Sponsored Links

The information provided on brainphysics.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of brainphysics.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Click here to read our complete Terms of Use.