By Jasreet Kaur16, Jan 2025 05:10 PMjagranjosh.com
Do you know?
Nail-biting is a common habit linked to stress, boredom, or self-soothing. Understanding its causes can help in managing and overcoming it. Tap to read in detail.
Stress Relief
Nail-biting is often a response to stress or anxiety. It helps alleviate tension by providing a momentary distraction and a sense of control.
Perfectionism
Perfectionists may bite their nails due to frustration with unmet goals or mistakes, as the repetitive behavior offers temporary satisfaction amidst their dissatisfaction.
Habitual Behavior
For many, nail-biting becomes a habitual action, performed unconsciously, often triggered by boredom or inactivity, as the mind seeks engagement or stimulation.
Self-Soothing Mechanism
Similar to thumb-sucking in childhood, nail-biting may act as a self-soothing mechanism, providing comfort during emotionally overwhelming situations or uncertain times.
Genetic Predisposition
Research suggests that nail-biting may run in families, indicating a potential genetic or learned behavioral component passed through generations.
Dopamine Release
The repetitive act of biting nails may stimulate dopamine release, temporarily rewarding the brain and reinforcing the behavior despite negative consequences.