Onychophagia is the obsession one has for biting nails. The person affected with this problem will engage in nail biting compulsively, irrespective of the consequences. This is a psychological problem which is indication of addiction for nail biting. Onychophagia is exhibited in 33% of children of age group 7-10 years. This problem has been associated with Obsessive compulsive disorder OCD.
Causes :
By biting the nails, the person will get a feeling of peace and relaxation. Whenever he/she feels stressed he will automatically engage in nail biting. The exact cause of onychophagia is unknown and varied. It can be due to stressful event or long lasting anxiety. Sometimes boredom or physical discomfort induces one to engage in biting nails. In most of the case, nail biting can be the consequences of psychological battle inside.
In rare cases, nail biting is an indication of self punishment. Usually onychophagia starts in early childhood and continues through adult ages. It is manifested in both sexes. Many people bite their nails as part of daily routine without getting stressed. For instance they bite nails while socializing, watching television or white chatting with their friends.
Some experts believe nail biting is associated with nervous disorder and exhibited by people who have difficulty to open-up or ventilate their feelings. Sometimes it can be a symptom of pending anger or stubborn attitude. The behavior of nail biting can also be an expression to show denial or disobedience in following the instructions or to memorize the lesson among children.
Signs of Onychophagia :
Nail biting can be a social phenomenon for many people. In our society great stress is placed on the child and every parent expects his child to be competent enough to face the challenges of the world. So, without their knowledge they push the child continuously to reach the goal, without knowing whether the child is mentally prepared for it. In the end the child will restore to one or other defense mechanism like nail biting.