Trichotillomania: Conceptualization, measurement, and treatment

Trichotillomania (TCM), a condition characterized by chronic hair pulling, has received increased attention in the behavioral literature of late. Beca use TCM has typically been conceptualized as a psychiatric, rather than a b ehavioral, psychological, or pediatric concern, behavior therapists may hav e little background information about the disorder and its treatments. This paper presents a review of the nature of TCM and the current conceptualiza tions of the disorder. We review recent research on the measurement and tre atment of TCM. Limitations of the current research, suggestions for further study, and implications for treatment of TCM are discussed.