Trichotillomania: Behavioral Symptom or Clinical Syndrome?
October 1997
in “
American Journal of Psychiatry
”
Trichotillomania, defined as a compulsive urge to pull one's own hair, was discussed as both a behavioral symptom and a clinical syndrome. The syndrome is characterized by repetitive hair pulling, tension when resisting, and relief after pulling, leading to noticeable hair loss and substantial distress. It often arises independently and is chronic. The condition spans neurological and psychosocial domains, illustrating its complex nature and treatment challenges.