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.
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
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
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)
