Characteristics Of Phobias, Depression And OCD Flashcards
What is a phobia?
An intense, irrational fear of something, someone or a situation
What are 2 behavioural characteristics of phobias?
Panic - manifested as crying, screaming, etc.)
Avoidance - avoiding the stimulus
What are 2 emotional characteristics of phobias?
Anxiety - being in an unpleasant, heightened state of arousal
Unawareness that the anxiety felt towards the phobic stimulus is irrational
What are 3 cognitive characteristics of phobias?
Irrational thoughts - (e.g. “all spiders are dangerous”)
Cognitive distortions - stimulus is perceived as overly horrid, or terrifying by the sufferer
Selective attention - person remains focused on the phobic stimulus
What is depression?
A disorder characterised usually by low mood and lowered activity
What are 3 behavioural characteristics of depression?
Reduced level of activity (e.g. struggle to get out of bed)
Disruption to sleep and eating behaviour
Self-harm
What are 3 emotional characteristics of depression?
Loss of interest in normal activities
Extreme sadness
Low self-esteem
What are 3 cognitive characteristics of depression?
Negative thoughts
Poor concentration
Absolutist thinking - things seen as perfect successes or disasters, no in between
What is OCD?
An anxiety disorder characterised by obsessive thoughts and/or compulsive behaviour
What are 2 behavioural characteristics of OCD?
Compulsive behaviours - repetitive & reduce anxiety (e.g. hand washing, counting etc.)
Avoidance of situations that might exacerbate their compulsions
What are 3 emotional characteristics of OCD?
High levels of anxiety
Feelings of guilt
Often accompanied by depression
What are 2 cognitive characteristics of OCD?
Obsessions, intrusive thoughts
Awareness that the thoughts are irrational and a product of their own mind
