Lesson 11 - Characteristics of OCD

Question 1

Behavioural Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Answer 1

Compulsions

Avoidance

Question 2

Behavioural Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Compulsions

Answer 2

Repetitive actions that could seriously hinder the person’s ability to perform everyday functions
Reduce anxiety that is created by obsessions
Person feels they must reform these actions otherwise something dreadful might happen

Question 3

Behavioural Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Avoidance

Answer 3

Some sufferers of OCD attempt to reduce anxiety by avoiding situations that might trigger it

Question 4

Emotional Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Answer 4

High anxiety

Disgust

Question 5

Emotional Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

High Anxiety

Answer 5

Obsessions and compulsions are a source of considerable anxiety and distress
Sufferers are aware that their obsessions and compulsive behaviours are excessive and this causes feelings of embarrassment and shame
Sufferers might also be aware that they cannot consciously control their compulsive behaviours which leads to strong feelings of distress

Question 6

Emotional Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Disgust

Answer 6

Feelings of disgust may be directed against something external like dirt, germs or the self

Question 7

Cognitive Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Answer 7

Obsessions
Awareness that behaviour is irrational
Catastrophic thinking

Question 8

Cognitive Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Obsessions

Answer 8

There are recurrent, intrusive, irrational thoughts that are perceived as inappropriate or forbidden
They may be frightening or embarrassing and the person might not want to share them with others
Common obsessions include doubts, impulses or images
These obsession are not worries about everyday problems instead they are in controllable and cause anxiety

Question 9

Cognitive Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Awareness that Behaviour is Irritational

Answer 9

Most sufferers understand their compulsive behaviours and obsessive thoughts are inappropriate and irrational but they cannot consciously control or stop them

Question 10

Cognitive Characteristics of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Catastrophic Thinking

Answer 10

People with OCD are scared that something terrible will happen if they do not carry out their compulsion