OCD

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  Evaluate genetic explanation for OCD

  1. [Nestadt et al]- research to support genetic vulnerability form twin studies- 68% Identical twins and 31% Non identical shared OCD- family member with ocd equals 4x more likely
  2. [Cromer et al]- Biological reductionism as he found OCD was caused because of traumatic events in some cases
• Evaluate Neural explanation for OCD

  1. Cannot establish casual relationship between abnormal brain functioning and OCD
  2. Research to support low levels of serotonin affect OCD [zohar et al]- antidepressants that work purely on serotonin levels reduced OCD symptoms
• Outline Bio approach to treating OCD

  1. Treatments involving drugs- which affect neurtransmitter levels
  2. SSRI's - antidepressants that work on the serotonin system in the brain
  3. Serotonin released by the presynaptic neuron , travels across a synapse. chemically conveys the signal to the postsynaptic neuron where it's reabsorbed, broken down and reused
  4. SSRI's prevent reabsorption and breakdown- which means serotonin can continue to stimulate
  5. 3-4 months of daily use for SSRI''s to have impacts on symptoms
• Alternatives to SSRI's

  • Tricyclics- same effect but more sever side effects- kept in reserve for individuals who don't respond to SSRIs
  • SNRI's- increases levels of serotonin and noradrenaline
• A limitation of treatments into OCD

  • SSRI's have serious side effects- indigestion, blurred vision and loss of sex drive- more common if taking tricyclic drugs= reduces quality of life - may stop taking them- so less effective
• 2 strength of research into treatment of OCD

  + Evidence for it's effectiveness [ soomro et al]- 17 studies vs placebo - symptoms reduce for 70% people taking SSRI's and the rest of the 30% can take a combination of other drugs+ therapy- this reduces symptoms severity and increases quality of life

  + Cost effective+ Non-disruptive- can manufacture thousands of tablets/liquids in time it takes to conduct one session of psychological therapy = good value for NHS - can be taken whenever- does not take much time= popular treatment
• Behavioural characteristics of OCD

  • Compulsions are repetitive
  • Reduces anxiety
  • Avoidance
• Emotional characteristics of OCD

  • Anxiety and distress
  • Accompanying depression
  • Guilt and disgust
• Cognitive characteristics of OCD

  • Obsessive thoughts
  • Cognitive coping strategies
  • Excessive anxiety