Obsessive- compulsive disorder (OCD)

Question 1

Explain the DSM-5 categories of OCD

Answer 1

OCD- characterised by either obsessions (recurring thoughts, images etc.) and/pr compulsions (repetitive behaviours like handwashing. Most people diagnosed can have both

Trichotillomania- compulsive hair pulling.

Hoarding disorder- the compulsive gathering of possessions and the inability to part with anything, regardless of its value

excoriation disorder- compulsive skin picking.

Question 2

explain the behavioural characteristics of OCD

Answer 2

compulsions are repetitive- e.g. handwashing, counting, praying, tidying, ordering groups of objects.

Compulsions reduce anxiety- performed in an attempt to measure their anxiety produced by obsessions. e.g. handwashing is a response of the fear of germs/ compulsive checking may be a response to a fear of something being unsecured.

Question 3

explain the cycle of OCD

Answer 3

1. obsessive thought
2. anxiety
3. compulsive behaviour
4. temporary believe
   then hack to number 1

Question 4

explain the emotional characteristics of OCD

Answer 4

anxiety and distress- unpleasant emotional experience because of the powerful anxiety that accompanies both obsessions and compulsions. It can be frightening and the anxiety that goes with this can be overwhelming. The urge to repeat a behaviour can create anxiety.

accompanying depression- OCD is accompanied by depression. It can bring about low mood and a lack of enjoyment in activities

Guilt and disgust- involves negative emotions such as irrational guilt over minor moral issues, or disgust which can be directed at ones self or something external like dirt.

Question 5

explain the cognitive characteristics of OCD

Answer 5

obsessive thoughts- thoughts that recur over and over again. They are different from person to person but are very unpleasant. e.g. worried about being contaminated by dirt or if the door has been unlocked and that intruders will enter.

cognitive coping strategies- adopt these to deal with OCD and obsessions. E.G. a religious person may respond by praying or meditating

insight into excessive anxiety- people with OCD are aware their compulsions are not rational. They experience catastrophic thoughts about the worse possible experiences. They are also hypervigilant like maintain constant alertness and keep attention focussed on potential hazards.