INVESTIGATING MEDICAL PROVIDERS KNOWLEDGE OF TRICHOTILLIMANIA DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Author

• Ella Perry Kerr, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Date of Award

5-1-2026

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Lee, Eric

Abstract

Trichotillomania is a mental health condition marked by recurrent, compulsive hair pulling, resulting in noticeable hair loss. Affected areas often include the scalp, limbs, eyelashes, eyebrows, and other parts of the body. The disorder can significantly impair daily functioning and is frequently associated with emotional distress, including anxiety and shame. Given the visible nature of its symptoms, individuals with trichotillomania often present first in general medical settings. The present study examines medical provider s’ ability to diagnose trichotillomania and recommend evidence-based treatments. A total of 232 Medical providers completed a measure assessing their diagnostic knowledge, diagnostic accuracy based on clinical vignettes, and treatment recommendations. A multiple regression analysis revealed that knowledge scores significantly predicted diagnostic accuracy (β = .35, p = .001), accounting for unique variance in performance, whereas years of professional experience was not a significant predictor. Regarding treatment recommendations in the sample at large, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Habit Reversal Therapy (HRT) received the highest endorsement ratings. Years of experience was positively associated with recommendations for psychotropic medications (SSRIs) (r = .225, p < .001) and psychoanalysis (r = .151, p = .027), but was not related to endorsement of behavioral interventions such as CBT, HRT, or Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). These findings suggest that knowledge, rather than years of experience, is associated with improved diagnostic accuracy.