Excessive worry about a perceived defect in one's appearance not seen by others is classified as?

The classification of excessive worry about a perceived defect in one's appearance that is not recognized by others is accurately identified as Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). This psychological condition involves an individual's intense focus on a perceived flaw in physical appearance, which may be minor or nonexistent. Individuals with BDD often engage in compulsive behaviors, such as excessive grooming or seeking reassurance about their appearance, and they may suffer significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder is specifically characterized by this preoccupation with appearance, which distinguishes it from other disorders. For instance, while hypochondriasis involves significant worry about having a serious illness based on misinterpretation of bodily symptoms, it does not specifically focus on appearance. Somatization disorder is characterized by multiple physical complaints that lack a medical explanation, typically not linked specifically to appearance issues. Conversion disorder involves neurological symptoms that appear to be inconsistent with or cannot be explained by medical conditions but do not pertain to the individual’s physical appearance. Therefore, the specific features and focus of Body Dysmorphic Disorder make it the correct classification for the symptoms described.