Nail biting is a common body-focused repetitive behavior (BFRB) that involves compulsively biting one’s fingernails, that can lead to damage to the nails, cuticles, and/or surrounding skin. It is often considered a “bad habit”, which is not true. These are complex mental health conditions. It can occur in response to a range of emotional states—including stress, boredom, anxiety, as well as excitement or joy—and often function as a self-soothing or regulating behavior.
