Obsessive-compulsive-disorder (OCD)

Question 1

What is OCD?

Answer 1

A condiiton characterised by obsessions and complusive behaviour

Question 2

What does the DSM-5 say about OCD?

Answer 2

• Characterised by obsessions and compulsions
• Similar to: trichotillomania, hoarding disorder, excoriation disorder

Question 3

What are the behavioural characteristics of OCD?

Answer 3

• Repetitive complusions (e.g: handwashing)
• Complusions reduce anxiety (10% show compulsive behaviour, manage anxiety caused by obsessions)
• Avoidance (attempt to reduce anxiety by avoiding triggers)

Question 4

What are the emotional characteristics of OCD?

Answer 4

• Anxiety and distress (unpleasant emotional experience- frightening obsessive thoughts trigger anxiety)
• Accompanying depression (low mood, lack of enjoyment)
• Guilt and disgust (irrational guilt, externally directed disgust)

Question 5

What are the cognitive characteristics of OCD?

Answer 5

• Obsessive thoughts (90%= obsessive thoughts, e.g: worry of germ contamination)
• Cognitive coping strategies (e.g: through prayer, manages anxiety)
• Insight into excessive anxiety (aware of irrationality, catastrophic thoughts, hypervigilance)