Uncovering the Mechanisms Behind BFRBs: Advances and Insights

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This video explores the necessity for mechanistically-based research in understanding common symptoms associated with brain disorders. It delves into the importance of dismantling these disorders into well-defined symptoms and mapping them onto brain mechanisms, leveraging advances in neuroscience.

By understanding these mechanisms at both biological and psychological levels, researchers aim to develop targeted treatments.

This episode also discusses specialised brain regions involved in decision-making, movement control, and the relationship between BFRBs (Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours), such as hair pulling and skin picking, and anxiety, where shame plays a significant role.

Experts explain how certain brain mechanisms that trigger the endorphin system help individuals manage stress and rejection through these Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviours.

00:00 Introduction to Mechanistic Research (John Geddes)
00:25 Mapping Symptoms to Brain Mechanisms (John Geddes)
00:53 Developing Rational Therapies (John Geddes)
01:07 Brain Areas and Movement Control (Matthew Rushworth)
01:27 Understanding Brain Mechanisms for Decision Making (Matthew Rushworth)
02:03 The Role of Shame in Anxiety and BFRBs (Polly Waite)
02:36 Mechanisms Behind Hair Pulling and Skin Picking (Robin Dunbar)
03:00 Coping with Stress and Rejection (Robin Dunbar)

This video was recorded by The Mental Elf at the 2024 Oxford BFRB Conference #OxBFRBconf organised by BFRB UK and Ireland and the University of Oxford. Find out more at