olfactory reference syndrome

a cluster of symptoms that include an excessive and irrational fear that one is emitting an unpleasant or offensive body odor, typically accompanied by frequent compulsions (e.g., excessive bathing or use of deodorant), and that cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. Olfactory reference syndrome is considered by many to be a form of either body dysmorphic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Also called autodysomophobia; bromosis. See also taijin kyofusho.

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Psychology term of the day

February 17th 2025

transdermal patch

an adhesive application that is designed to release a drug at a steady rate via absorption through the skin into the bloodstream. Transdermal patches are used, for example, to administer nicotine in progressively smaller doses to people who are trying to give up smoking.