OCD

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)


  An anxiety disorder where anxiety arises from both obsessions (persistent thoughts) and compulsions (behaviours that are repeated over and over again). Compulsions are a response to obsessions and the person believes the compulsions will reduce anxiety.
• Characteristics of OCD


  • Emotional
  • Behavioural
  • Cognitive
• Emotional characteristics of OCD

  • Anxiety and shame-Both the obsessions and compulsions are a source of considerable anxiety and distress Sufferers are aware that their behaviour is excessive and this causes feelings of embarrassment and shame.
  • A common obsession concerns germs which gives rise to feelings of disgust
• Behavioural characteristics of OCD

  • Compulsive behaviours People with OCD engage in compulsive behaviours that are repetitive such as hand washing or checking. They may be mental acts such as praying or counting
• Cognitive characteristics of OCD


  • Excessive and unreasonable Obsessional thoughts are excessive, intrusive and unreasonable. Common obsessional themes: include ideas (e.g. that germs are everywhere) and doubts (e.g. the worry that something important has been overlooked)
  • Hypervigilance/increased awareness of source of obsession in new situations
  • A person with OCD knows that their thoughts are irrational (vs those with schizophrenia)