Neural explanation of OCD

• Neural explanation 1 for OCD

  Disrupted communication between basal ganglia and orbitofrontal cortex which regulates behaviour and decision making causes OCD
• Neural explanation 1 for OCD

  1. Disruption weakens inhibitory signals from basal ganglia

  2. Leads to hyperactivity in orbitofrontal cortex

  3. Causes repetitive thoughts (compulsions)
• Neural explanation 2 for OCD

  Abnormal neurotransmitter levels cause OCD
• Low serotonin levels


  Impair mood-relevant transmission, leading to lowered mood (associated with OCD)
• High dopamine levels


  Result in compulsions (associated with OCD) due to its role in pleasure and reward