Characteristics of OCD

• What are the behavioural characteristics of OCD?

  • COMPULSIONS - repetitive behaviours that the person feels compelled to do
  • AVOIDANCE - attempt at reducing anxiety by staying away from situations that trigger it
• What are the emotional characteristics of OCD?

  • ANXIETY & DISTRESS - emotions caused by unpleasant thoughts
  • GUILT - may feel irrationally guilty about their behaviour
  • DISGUST - may feel disgusted by themselves or their surroundings
• What are the cognitive characteristics of OCD?

  • OBSESSIONS - intrusive, unpleasant thoughts that occur over and over again
  • AWARENESS - they know their obsessions and compulsions are irrational but they are unable to control them