The Role of Cognitions and Beliefs in Trichotillomania: A Qualitative Study Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

August 2015 in “ Behaviour change ”

Imogen C. Rehm, Maja Nedeljkovic, Anna Thomas, Richard Moulding

trichotillomania hair-pulling cognitions beliefs cognitive-behavioral models negative self-beliefs control beliefs coping beliefs negative emotions perfectionism TTM

Studysummary This study identified six belief themes that may contribute to hairpulling behavior in women with trichotillomania, suggesting an important role for cognitions in this disorder's phenomenology.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

This study explored the cognitions and beliefs contributing to trichotillomania (TTM) through semi-structured interviews with 8 women. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, six key themes were identified: negative self-beliefs, control beliefs, beliefs about coping, beliefs about negative emotions, permission-giving beliefs, and perfectionism. These findings suggested that cognitions played a significant role in the onset and maintenance of hair-pulling in TTM. The study highlighted the potential for future quantitative research to enhance cognitive-behavioral models and treatments for TTM.

View this study on cambridge.org →

Discuss this study in the Community →

Research cited in this study

2 / 2 results

research Group Treatment for Trichotillomania: Behavior Therapy Versus Supportive Therapy

69 citations , August 2006 in “Behavior Therapy”

This study found that group behavior therapy for trichotillomania led to greater short-term symptom improvement compared to supportive therapy, but did not achieve clinically significant changes or prevent relapse over six months.

research Characteristics of 60 Adult Chronic Hair Pullers

417 citations , March 1991 in “American Journal of Psychiatry”

This study found that adult trichotillomania is a chronic disorder often linked with high psychiatric comorbidity and suggests the tension-reduction criterion in diagnoses might be too restrictive.