Obsessive Compulsive Disorders

What characterizes Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

OCD is characterized by obsessions and/or compulsions.

What are obsessions in the context of OCD?

Obsessions are recurring intrusive, unwanted thoughts, urges, or images.

Give an example of an obsession.

Worrying that something bad will happen or repeated doubts.

What are compulsions in OCD?

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed in response to obsessions.

Provide an example of a compulsion.

Checking and rechecking, or putting clothes on in the same order every day.

How much time do OCD symptoms typically consume?

OCD symptoms are time-consuming, taking more than 1 hour per day.

What common feelings are associated with OCD?

Fear of the thoughts and avoidance of the physiological experience of anxiety.

Describe the OCD cycle.

An obsessive thought leads to anxiety, which is temporarily relieved by engaging in compulsive behavior, reinforcing the cycle.

What are common themes in OCD for children?

Common themes include contamination, doubt and harm, symmetry and balance, and forbidden thoughts.

What is accommodation in the context of OCD?

Accommodation refers to modifying routines to help someone with OCD, which can reinforce symptoms.

What is Hoarding Disorder?

Hoarding Disorder is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding possessions, leading to clutter and significant distress.

What is Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)?

BDD involves obsessions focused on perceived physical flaws that are not observable or are slight to others.

What are common compulsive behaviors in BDD?

Common compulsive behaviors include grooming, mirror checking, and camouflaging.

What is the prevalence of OCD?

OCD affects approximately 1.2% of the population.

What is the prevalence of Body Dysmorphic Disorder?

BDD affects approximately 2.4% of the population.

What is the prevalence of Hoarding Disorder?

Hoarding Disorder affects about 1.5% to 6% of the population.

What factors contribute to higher rates of anxiety disorders in females?

Factors include hormonal fluctuations, physical differences, brain differences, behavioral tendencies, societal expectations, and exposure to stressors.

What is the genetic component in the etiology of OCD?

There is a genetic/hereditary component and neurotransmitter imbalances, especially serotonin.

What cognitive factors contribute to OCD?

Cognitive factors include distorted thinking, inability to neutralize intrusive thoughts, and perfectionism.

What behavioral factors are involved in OCD?

Operant conditioning where compulsions are negatively reinforced by anxiety reduction.

What is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)?

ERP is a treatment that involves gradual exposure to anxiety-provoking thoughts while preventing the usual compulsive response.

What challenges are associated with treating OCD?

Challenges include treatment refusal, dropout, and symptom relapse.

What is the role of SSRIs in treating OCD?

SSRIs are commonly used in the treatment of OCD to help manage symptoms.

What is the significance of the anxiety rating scale in ERP?

The anxiety rating scale helps assess the level of anxiety for specific thoughts, urges, or compulsions during exposure.

What should be noted about conducting ERP?

ERP should be guided by a therapist and not attempted without training.