Muscle dysmorphia
Muscle dysmorphia is a disorder in which an individual becomes obsessed that they are not muscular enough. Sometimes referred to as bigorexia or reverse anorexia nervosa, it is a very specific case of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). Muscle dysmorphia can cause individuals to: Become reclusive due to the belief others will judge their (perceived) "smallness"Wear very baggy clothesConstantly check themselves in a mirrorBecome distressed if a gym session is missedTake potentially dangerous drugs (e.g. anabolic steroids)Neglecting jobs/relationships/family due to exercising In his 2000 book The Adonis Complex, Harvard psychiatrist Harrison Pope argues that muscle dysmorphia is fueled by the portrayal of overly fit characters of unattainable musculature in childrens' cartoons, such as G.I. Joe.
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