Trichotillomania in Children and Adolescents: Review of the Literature and Case Report

The document reviewed trichotillomania, a condition where individuals compulsively pull out their hair, and included a case report of a 6½-year-old boy with the disorder. It is noted to be rare, more common in females, and often associated with other behaviors and psychological issues. Treatment varies and can include psychotherapy, behavior modification, and medication, with no standard approach. The case report emphasized the importance of a supportive home environment and addressing parent-child interactions, with the boy's treatment involving changes in the mother's behavior and a more relaxed home atmosphere. This led to the cessation of hair pulling and improved behavior at home and school. A three-year follow-up showed no recurrence of hair pulling. The document suggests that trichotillomania may be more accurately classified as an anxiety disorder and highlights the need to focus on developmental and relational factors in treatment.