BIID

Taking into consideration all of the body modifications we've covered so far this semester, Body Integrity Identity Disorder (BIID) seems the most inexplicable to me. In "Cutting Desire" Jessie Ellison states, "The desire to be disabled seems so bizarre and contrary to basic human instincts," which could not more accurately describe how this makes me feel. Why would someone choose to be disabled? Are people born with BIID? Or does it develop? How and/or why would a disorder like this develop? Most body modifications are implemented in order to improve bodily function or aesthetic, while BIID contrasts and almost goes against nature and evolution of our species.

Could BIID be subliminally implemented in someone's mind? Although we are far from having implemented accessible or inclusive design throughout the US, our society has created a culture in which amputees and/or disabled people often receive increased attention, compassion, sympathy, care, and catering. In our world of increased tolerance and understanding of all people, I believe children may be implicitly inspired to receive this special treatment that they would never experience if they grew up "normal." Especially because Ellison mentions, "They are most often white middle-aged males," I cannot help but think that the concept of white privilege carries a strong undercurrent. Can an act as simple as being identified as privileged implicitly cause someone to desire to be more "normal?" Or even sway them as far as developing the desire to become "less than normal?" Or is BIID simply the result of a neurological disorder or identity issue?

The overwhelming assertion by people with BIID is that there is no medication or psychotherapy capable of treating the disorder.  This suggests that they are truly dealing with an identity disorder comparable to gender identity disorder. If BIID remains as rare as it is today, it seems unlikely that much medical research will be done on it, leaving us still asking these questions. It also seems that people with the disorder even have some trouble describing it, besides a feeling of discontent with their body. Although I would like to argue that some sort of psychiatric treatment could be devised to treat BIID, the patients would argue otherwise. It is unfortunate that these people will not feel as if they have "righted" themselves unless they undergo some type of physical surgery. I can't see any other treatment options unless more people suffering are capable of portraying a better concept of how exactly BIID makes them feel.