Excoriation Disorder is characterized by:

Excoriation Disorder, often referred to as skin-picking disorder, is specifically characterized by the compulsive picking of one's own skin, leading to various skin lesions or wounds. This disorder can result in noticeable damage to the skin, such as scars or infections, and the behavior may be difficult for individuals to control despite the negative consequences they experience.

The focus on compulsive skin picking in this disorder aligns with the clinical criteria outlined in diagnostic manuals. Individuals with Excoriation Disorder may engage in this behavior to alleviate tension or anxiety, or sometimes even to focus their attention away from emotional distress. The resulting lesions can lead to significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning, further defining the nature of this disorder.

In contrast, other options describe different disorders or behaviors. Compulsive hair pulling aligns with trichotillomania, while difficulty discarding possessions relates to hoarding disorder, and persistent negative thoughts about oneself may be indicative of mood disorders or anxiety disorders rather than Excoriation Disorder. Thus, the emphasis on skin picking and its resultant skin lesions clarifies why this characterization is the correct one for Excoriation Disorder.