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People usually say that nail biting is a sign of nervousness or embarrassment.
Recent studies, however, show that the reason is completely different
According to a study published in the Journal of Behavioral Therapy and Experimental Psychiatry, nail biting may be a sign of perfectionism. Dr. Kieron O’Connor says:
„We believe that individuals with this obsession may be perfectionists – that is, they are unable to relax or act at a normal pace.“ As a result, they are prone to frustration, impatience and disappointment when they do not achieve their intended goal. “
The result is that people who bite their nails are not trying to calm their nerves at all
Researchers studied 48 people, half of whom were prone to intrusive behaviors directed at their bodies. Participants were asked to complete a suitably designed questionnaire that examined their level of organization and mechanisms of emotional control.
Nail biting was classified as organizational perfectionism. They were people with a tendency to make detailed plans and to be workaholics. Nail biting and other similar behaviors are a way to release their energy. Nail biting may seem harmless, but the long-term effects are very unpleasant. This habit can lead to the development of various infections, weakened teeth and even deformation of the nail plate.
These threats, along with the prevalence of the phenomenon, make nail biting a very interesting issue for psychotherapists around the world.
Do you bite your nails, but are you a perfectionist?
- You think „all or nothing“. You see the world as black and white.
- You are hard on yourself.
- You get nervous when you don’t achieve your goal.
- Even when you succeed, you are not satisfied with yourself.
- You are unable to start a new venture until the „perfect moment“.
