scab picking

[Patricia cabral]

about 2 years ago my daughter started picking her scabs. She not only picks scabs but she will find the tiniest spot on her and pick at it till it becomes raw. I have talked to several pediatricians, they have not given me any substantial information they just tell me that I should make sure she stops or they can become infected. I know it has to be more than a physical problem. Please let me know if you know of such a disorder and what can be done. She wont even wear shorts anymore. She is such a beautiful girl but she is scaring herself terribly.
                                     Thanks,
                                      Patricia

[Michael Stokes]

I am 36 years old and I too pick at my scabs. I have done this for a long as I can remember.
I only pick scabs that I get 'legitimately', so it has become much less of a problem as I get older. Office workers in their thirties tend to get fewer scabs than children.

[Buddy Norris]

I am 39 years and suffer from the same disorder. In only happened in the last four years. I have picked sores all over my body. I can't stop. I know I shouldn't and I know I'm scarred for life, but I still can't stop. I've even seen doctors and they've given me medicine for it. I suffer from depression and anxiety and always have, but this is new. I won't wear short sleeve shirts and shorts anymore because people stare and ask me what happened.
I never know what to say.

[Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D.]

Dear Ms. Cabral,

The picking at scabs can be a symptom of an anxiety disorder or an impulse control disorder. It would be sensible, in light of the ongoing nature and severity of the behavior, to consult with a child mental health professional. Through such a consultation you will be able to clarify the diagnosis and develop an intervention plan.