characteristics

• Define OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

  A condition characterised by obsessions and/or compulsive behaviour
• define obsessions

  recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are experienced as intrusive and unwanted
• what are obsessions? cognitive, behavioural or emotional?

  cognitive
• define compulsions

  repetitive behaviours (actions)
• list examples of common obsessions

  - contamination

  - fear of losing control

  - perfectionism

  - religion
• list examples of common compulsions

  - excessive washing & cleaning

  - excessive checking

  - repetition

  - mental consumptions e.g. praying in order to prevent harm

  - hoarding
• what are the 3 clinical characteristics of ocd?

  - behavioural

  - cognitive

  - emotional
• what are the behavioural characteristics?

  - compulsions

  - avoidance
• expand on compulsions

  They are repetitive & they reduce anxiety temporarily
• expand on avoidance

  avoiding a situation that triggers anxiety
• what are the cognitive characteristics of ocd?

  - obsessive thoughts

  - cognitive strategies

  - insight into excessive anxiety
• expand on obsessive thoughts

  they occur repeatedly in 90% of ocd sufferers & are unpleasant and cause anxiety
• expand on cognitive strategies

  they are used to deal with obsessions & seem odd to others, can also distract from everyday tasks too
• expand on insight into excessive anxiety

  ocd sufferers know their obsessions & compulsions are not rational
• what are the emotional characteristics of ocd?

  - anxiety & distress

  - depression

  - guilt & disgust
• expand on anxiety & distress

  powerful anxieties accompany obsessions & compulsions
• expand on depression

  ocd-ers often suffer depression, low moods & not enjoying activities
• expand on guilt & disgust pls

  normally irrational guilt involving disgust in oneself, others or surroundings. people can also have minor moral issues