Introduction

• OCD is an anxiety disorder characterised by obsessions (unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours)
• Compulsive behaviour refers to repetitive behaviours and a drive to reduce anxiety.

  • Repetitive behaviours is when people feel compelled to repeat a behaviour in order to prevent the obsessive thought from becoming true.
  • People reduce their anxiety by performing compulsions, such as checking that their door is locked.
• There are two behavioural characteristics of OCD; compulsive behaviour and avoidance
• Avoidance is when people avoid the situation that may trigger their anxiety. For example, avoiding germs. This can interfere with their everyday life.
• There are three emotional characteristics of OCD:

  • Anxiety and distress
  • Guilt and disgust at themselves over moral issues
  • Depression
• There are three cognitive characteristics of OCD:

  • Cognitive coping strategies
  • Obsessive thoughts
  • Excessive anxiety
• People who have OCD develop cognitive coping strategies to cope with anxiety. For example, a religious person may pray. This may help with anxiety but can appear abnormal and interfere with everyday life.
• People who have OCD have excessive anxiety although they are aware that their thoughts are irrational, which is a key characteristics that differentiates from other mental disorders. Sufferers are hyper vigilant, constantly aware.