Perspectives on Muscle Dysmorphia

Abstract

Muscle dysmorphia as a proposed psychiatric disorder has garnered attention in the general media and within the academic and scientific communities. Yet, while several models and theories have been proposed to explain its etiology, attributing muscle dysmorphia to one causative factor remains premature (Leone et al., 2005). Baghurst (2008) recently investigated traits associated with muscle dysmorphia in groups of competitive natural bodybuilders, competitive non-natural bodybuilders, weight trainers for physique development, and college football players. This article discusses the findings of this investigation and seeks to extend our understanding by illuminating the potential impact of pharmacological agents within the context of muscle dysmorphia.