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

TLDR Cognitions significantly influence Trichotillomania, suggesting cognitive therapies could help.

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.

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