Psychopathology - OCD Flashcards
What is OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)?
A condition characterized by obsessions and/or compulsive behaviour.
What are the DSM-5 categories of OCD?
OCD: Obsessive thoughts and/or compulsive behaviours such as hand washing.
Trichotillomania: Compulsive hair pulling.
Hoarding disorder: Compulsive gathering of possessions and the inability to part with anything, regardless of its value.
Excoriation disorder: Compulsive skin picking.
What are the two behavioural components of OCD compulsions?
Compulsions are repetitive: Sufferers feel compelled to repeat behaviours, e.g., hand washing, counting, or arranging objects.
Compulsions reduce anxiety: Around 10% of sufferers show compulsive behaviour alone (e.g., repeated hand washing to manage fear of germs). Most compulsions aim to reduce anxiety caused by obsessions.
How is avoidance a behavioural characteristic of OCD?
Sufferers avoid situations that trigger anxiety, e.g., avoiding contact with germs. However, avoidance can lead to interference with normal life, such as avoiding tasks like emptying rubbish bins.
How does OCD cause anxiety and distress?
OCD is an unpleasant emotional experience caused by obsessions and compulsions. Obsessive thoughts are frightening, and the anxiety caused by compulsions can feel overwhelming.
How is depression linked to OCD?
OCD is often accompanied by depression, leading to low mood and a lack of enjoyment in activities. Compulsions provide temporary relief from anxiety but do not bring genuine happiness.
How do guilt and disgust manifest in OCD?
Sufferers may experience irrational guilt over minor moral issues or disgust directed at themselves or external objects.
What are obsessive thoughts in OCD?
Obsessive thoughts are persistent and recurring, varying in intensity. Common examples include fear of contamination or fear that doors have been left unlocked.
How do people with OCD develop cognitive strategies to deal with obsessions?
Sufferers may adopt cognitive strategies, such as praying or meditating, to manage anxiety. These strategies can help but may distract from normal tasks.
What is insight into excessive anxiety in OCD?
Sufferers are aware that their obsessions and compulsions are irrational. Despite this, they experience catastrophic thoughts and feel unable to control their anxiety.
