ocd

Question 1

OCD- obsessive compulsive disorder

Answer 1

A conditioned characterised by obsessions and compulsive behaviour.

Question 2

BEHAVIOURAL CHARACTERISTICS

Answer 2

COMPULSIONS ARE REPEITIVE- they feel compelled to repeat a behaviour. e.g. hand washing, praying and tidying.

COMPULSIONS REDUCE ANXIETY- around 10% of people show compulsive behaviour alone. no obsessions just irrational anxiety. However compulsive behaviours are performed in an attempt to manage the anxiety produced by obsessions. For example compulsive hand washing is carried out as a response to an obsessive fear of germs.

AVOIDANCE- They reduce their anxiety by staying away from situations that trigger their anxiety. For example people who wash their hands compulsively may avoid coming into contact with germs. This can lead to avoidance of ordinary situations such as emptying bins.

Question 3

EMOTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Answer 3

ANXIETY AND DISTRESS- obsessive thoughts are unpleasant and frightening and the anxiety that goes with these can be overwhelming. The urge to repeat a behaviour creates anxiety.

ACCOMPANYING DEPRESSION- ocd is often accompanied by depression, so anxiety can be accompanied by low mood and lack of enjoyment in activities. Compulsive behaviours tend to bring relief but this is temporary.

GUILT AND DISGUST- OCD involves other negative emotions such as irrational guilt. E.g. over