Obsessive-compulsive disorder

• OCD


  A condition characterised by obsessions and/or compulsive behaviour.

  Obsession - cognitive

  Compulsion - behavioural
• Behavioural characteristics of OCD

  • Compulsions are repetitive: counting, praying, washing hands
  • Compulsions reduce anxiety: compulsive behaviours are performed to manage the anxiety produced by obsessions. Compulsive handwashing is carried out to manage fear of germs
  • Avoidance: Reduce anxiety by keeping away from triggering situations. People who wash their hands compulsively may avoid germs
• Emotional characteristics of OCD

  • anxiety and distress: Obsessive thoughts are unpleasant and frightening and the anxiety can be overwhelming.
  • Accompanying depression: Low mood and lack of enjoyment.
  • Guilt and disgust: irrational
• Cognitive characteristics of OCD

  • Obsessive thoughts: Thoughts recur over and over again. Always unpleasant.
  • Cognitive coping strategies: Religious person respond to guilt by praying. Helps manage anxiety.
  • Insight into excessive anxiety: Aware their OCD is not rational. Experience catastrophic thoughts about what would happen if anxieties justified. Hyperviligiant.