Trichotillomania: Hair Pulling Disorder

Trichotillomania, also known as hair pulling disorder, is a chronic psychiatric condition common among women. It is a condition that causes impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The rate of presentation of such cases to medical practitioners is low, as affected individuals conceal it because of the shame associated with hair pulling behaviour. This makes the aetiology and management of the condition to be fairly understood; creating the need for extensive empirical research. This paper discusses the clinical and epidemiological features of trichotillomania and its management.