Characterstics Of OCD

Question 1

What is OCD characterised by?

Answer 1

OCD is characterised by either obsessions (recurring thoughts) and or compulsions (repetitive behaviours e.g hand washing).

Question 2

Behavioural Characteristics

Answer 2

Avoidance- May avoid situations that cause anxiety
Compulsions are repetitive- feel
compelled to repeat a behaviour, e.g handwashing, collecting CD

Compulsions reduce anxiety- Around 1% of people with OCD show compulsive behaviour alone, no obsessions, just anxiety.

Question 3

Emotional Characteristics

Answer 3

• Anxiety and distress accompanies both obsessions and compulsions.
• Often accompanied by depression so experience low mood and lack of enjoyment
• Guilt and disgust- directed at something such a dirt or oneself

Question 4

Cognitive Characteristics of OCD

Answer 4

• Obsessive thoughts, e.g about germs
• Cognitive coping strategies e.g meditating or praying.
• Insight into excessive anxiety- may include catastrophic thoughts and hyper-vigilance (always alert) about worst case scenarios