P - OCD

Question 1

What is OCD?

Answer 1

A condition characterised by obsessive behaviour and/or compulsive behaviour

Question 2

What are the behavioural characteristics of OCD?

Answer 2

Compulsive behaviour:
- Compulsions are repetitive: Sufferers are compelled to repeat a behaviour an excessive amount of times for example: brushing teeth
- Compulsions reduce anxiety: Compulsive behaviour is a response to manage the anxiety caused by the obsession

Avoidance: sufferers of OCD may avoid situations that trigger the anxiety. For example suffers who wash compulsively may avoid coming into contact with germs. This can lead people to avoid very ordinary situations such as emptying there rubbish bins

Question 3

What are the emotional characteristics of OCD?

Answer 3

• Anxiety and distress; Obsessive thoughts are unpleasent and frightening, and the anxiety that goes with it
• OCD is often accompanied by depression; compulsive behaviour tends to bring some relief from anxiety but this is temporary
• Guilt and disgust