Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a serious and debilitating mental health condition that significantly impacts the lives of sufferers and their loved ones. BDD is under researched. Even less is known about its impact in particular groups that have been underrepresented within the literature. This thesis aimed to explore the lived experience of both individuals with BDD from marginalised groups, as well as carers of adults with BDD.

Part one of this portfolio presents an empirical paper that explored Relational Accommodation (RA) experiences in carers living with an adult with BDD, including how they respond to their loved one’s symptoms. Findings suggest that RA is linked to carers’ self-concept, distress avoidance and risk concerns. There were novel findings related to the unique challenges carers of adults are faced with. Clinical implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.

Part two presents a scoping review of experiences of BDD in LGBTQIA+ global majority individuals. The findings of the review suggest that minoritised individuals may face unique stressors contributing to their vulnerability to BDD and are likely to present differentially to their non-LGBTQIA+, Western counterparts. Evidence on multiple minority individuals was sparse. Recommendations have been provided to guide future research on BDD sufferers with multiple intersecting identities.