OCD (intro)

Question 1

What is OCD?

Answer 1

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder
Two main components: obsessions (persistent thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours)

Question 2

What are the emotional characteristics of OCD?

Answer 2

• anxiety and distress
• sufferers are aware that their behaviour is excessive; causes embarrassment and shame
• sometimes disgust

Question 3

What are the behavioural characteristics of OCD?

Answer 3

• compulsive behaviours; performed to reduce anxiety created by obsessions
• repetitive, unconcealed (e.g. handwashing) - can be mental acts, e.g. counting
• patients feel they must perform these actions; creates anxiety
• behaviours are not connected in a realistic way with what they are designed to neutralise/prevent

Question 4

What are the cognitive characteristics of OCD?

Answer 4

• obsessions; recurrent intrusive thoughts perceived as inappropriate/forbidden
• obsessional themes; ideas, doubts, impulses, images
• are seen as uncontrollable; creates anxiety
• individual recognises that they are a product of their own mind