The Science Behind Hair Pulling, Skin Picking, and Other Repetitive Behaviors @treatmyocd
The Science Behind Hair Pulling, Skin Picking, and Other Repetitive Behaviors  @treatmyocd
Uploaded March 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Hair pulling, skin picking, nail biting — these aren’t just “bad habits.” They’re known as body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs), and for many people, they feel nearly impossible to stop. But it is possible, and there’s actually research to prove it.

Dr. Jamie Feusner and Clare Beatty have studied BFRB, and they’re here to break down what the science shows. They explain why these behaviors develop, why they can feel automatic and hard to control, and how evidence-based treatment like habit reversal training (HRT) has been proven to be so effective at minimizing the behaviors.

At NOCD, we specialize in exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy, the most effective treatment for OCD—a treatment that can help you live a fulfilling life. If you’re ready to take your first step, book a free 15-minute call with us at learn.nocd.com/YT

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The Science Behind Hair Pulling, Skin Picking, and Other Repetitive Behaviors

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