Speaking of Psychology

Author: American Psychological Association

"Speaking of Psychology" is an audio podcast series highlighting some of the latest, most important and relevant psychological research being conducted today. Produced by the American Psychological Association, these podcasts will help listeners apply the science of psychology to their everyday lives.
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Language: en

Genres: Health & Fitness, Life Sciences, Mental Health, Science

Contact email: Get it

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Understanding trichotillomania (hair-pulling) and other body-focused repetitive behaviors, with Clare Mackay, PhD, and Suzanne Mouton-Odum, PhD
Episode 353
Wednesday, 29 October, 2025

Body-focused repetitive behaviors such as hair pulling (trichotillomania) and skin picking are relatively common but remain stigmatized and misunderstood. Suzanne Mouton-Odum, PhD, and Clare Mackay, PhD, talk about why these behaviors occur and how they relate to grooming and emotion regulation; how living with BFRBs affects people’s lives and mental health; why reducing shame and stigma is so important; and how parents can support children with BFRBs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices