Exocataphoria is a term used in psychiatry to describe the tendency to look outside oneself for validation and approval. The spelling of this word can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first syllable "ekso" is pronounced as "ɛksoʊ", the second syllable "ca" is pronounced as "kæ", the third syllable "ta" is pronounced as "tæ", and the fourth syllable "phoria" is pronounced as "fɔriə". Together, the word is pronounced as "ɛksoʊkætæfɔriə".
Exocataphoria is a psychological term that refers to a condition in which an individual experiences an aversion or intense dislike towards one's own appearance or physical attributes. Specifically, it involves a strong negative reaction or dissatisfaction with the way one looks, with a focus on external or superficial features. People with exocataphoria may exhibit a preoccupation or obsession with perceived flaws or imperfections in their appearance, leading to feelings of distress, low self-esteem, and a distorted self-image.
This condition is often associated with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a mental health disorder characterized by an excessive concern over slight or imagined defects in one's appearance. Individuals suffering from exocataphoria may engage in compulsive behaviors such as constantly checking their appearance, seeking reassurance from others, or undergoing unnecessary cosmetic procedures in an attempt to alleviate their distress.
The term "exocataphoria" can be broken down into its constituent parts: "exo" meaning external or outward, "cataph" meaning reflection or mirror image, and "-phoria" meaning an abnormal condition or behavior. Therefore, it can be understood as a literal translation meaning an abnormal condition of aversion or displeasure with one's external appearance or reflection.
A tendency of the eye to deviate outward and downward.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.