Characteristics of OCD

• What is OCD?

  1. Recurrent obsessions and compulsions.
  2. Recognition by the individual that the obsessions and compulsions are excessive or unreasonable.
  3. The person is distressed or impaired, and daily life is disrupted by the obsessions and compulsions.
• What is an obsession?

  Persistent thought, idea or impulse that if experienced repeatedly, feels intrusive and causes anxiety.
• What is a compulsion?

  Repetitive and rigid behaviour or mental act that a person feels driven to perform in order to prevent or reduce anxiety.
• What is avoidance?

  Sufferers may attempt to reduce anxiety by avoiding situations that trigger it, e.g., germs.
• What are emotional characteristics of OCD?

  Anxiety and distress; depression, guilt and disgust.
• What are behavioural characteristics of OCD?

  Compulsions; avoidance behaviours.
• What are cognitive characteristics of OCD?

  Obsessive, intrusive thoughts; cognitive coping strategies.