OCD - Behavioural, Emotional And Cognitive Characteristics Flashcards
What is OCD?
An anxiety disorder characterised by obsessions and/or compulsions - they cause distress, are time-consuming and interfere with normal routine.
What are the two emotional characteristics of OCD?
1) Anxiety.
2) Reduction of Anxiety.
In terms of OCD, what does ‘anxiety’ refer to?
An unpleasant state of high arousal which can accompany both obsessions and compulsions - obsessive thoughts can be stressful and overwhelming and prevent normal functioning.
In terms of OCD, what does ‘reduction of anxiety’ refer to?
Compulsive behaviours reduce feelings of anxiety and this reduction might drive repetitive compulsive behaviours.
What is an example of ‘reduction of anxiety’?
Compulsive hand-washing might reduce the anxiety caused by an excessive fear of germs, encouraging more hand-washing.
What are the two cognitive characteristics of OCD?
1) Obsessions.
2) Irrational Beliefs.
In terms of OCD, what are ‘obsessions’?
Persistent recurring internal thoughts that drive anxious feelings - they can be ideas or doubts.
In terms of OCD, what are ‘irrational beliefs’?
Beliefs that are not logical and do not make sense to others - at some point though, sufferers realise that the obsessions/compulsions are excessive and unreasonable.
What are the two behavioural characteristics of OCD?
1) Compulsive Behaviours.
2) Avoidance.
In terms of OCD, what are ‘compulsive behaviours’?
Externally visible and repetitive behaviours - sufferers feel compelled to repeat the behaviour to reduce anxiety.
What are examples of compulsive behaviours?
Repetitive hand-washing, counting or tidying/ordering.
In terms of OCD what is ‘avoidance’?
Sufferers may go out of their way to avoid situations which usually trigger anxiety which can interfere with their normal day to day life.
What is the aim of avoidance?
Reducing anxiety through avoidance.
