OCD Flashcards
What is OCD?
A condition characterized by obsessions and/or compulsive behaviour
What are the three behavioural characteristics of OCD ?
-compulsions as repetitive
-compulsions reduce anxiety
-avoidance
Describe repetitive compulsions
Sufferers are compelled to repeat behaviour as a response to their obsessive thoughts (hand washing)
Describe anxiety reduction through compulsions
Compulsive behaviours are performed in attempt to manage the anxiety produced by obsessions
Describe avoidance OCD
Sufferers of OCD tend to try manage their OCD by avoiding situations that trigger anxiety ( not coming into contact with germs)
What are the three emotional characteristics of OCD?
- anxiety & distress
- guilt and disgust
- accompanying depression
Describe anxiety & distress
Thoughts are unpleasant and frightening, causing overwhelming anxiety
Describe accompanying depression
Anxiety accompanied by low mood and and lack of enjoyment in activities
Describe guilt and disgust
Irrational guilt involved
(directed against something external or to self)
What are three cognitive characteristics of OCD?
- obsessive thoughts
- insight into excessive anxiety
- cognitive coping strategies
Describe obsessive thoughts
unpleasant thoughts that are recurring
( certainly that door is left unlocked )
Describe cognitive coping strategies
Adopted to help with deal with obsessions and manage anxiety
e.g religious person tormented by guilt may respond by praying or meditating
Describe insight into excessive anxiety
Sufferers are aware that their obsesssion and compulsions are not rational
- tend to be hyper vigilant- maitain constant alertness
