Characteristics of OCD

Question 1

What is the definition of a compulsion?

Answer 1

Behaviour that you feel you need to do.

Question 2

What is the definition of an obsession?

Answer 2

A cognition that takes place in the mind.

Question 3

What are the 4 steps of the OCD cycle?

Answer 3

1. Obsessive thought
2. Anxiety
3. Compulsive behaviour
4. Temporary relief

Question 4

What are the 3 behavioural characteristics of OCD?

Answer 4

• Compulsions are repetitive.
• Compulsions reduce anxiety: They are done to reduce the anxiety produced by obsessions.
• Avoidance: They avoid their triggers to manage their OCD.

Question 5

What are the 3 emotional characteristics of OCD?

Answer 5

• Anxiety and stress
• Accompanying depression
• Guilt and disgust

Question 6

What are the 3 cognitive characteristics of OCD?

Answer 6

• Obsessive thought
• Cognitive coping strategies
• Insight into excessive anxiety: They know their thoughts are irrational.