explanations of ocd

biological

Murphy et al. - linked hSert gene to OCD, gene deals with how serotonin is transported, this increases reuptake = decreases serotonin levels

behavioral

Mowrer - Two-Process Avoidance Learning Theory, classical and operant conditioning, neutral stimulus becomes linked w/ a distressing thought, anxiety is then relieved by preforming a specific action

Psychoanalytic

Freud - OCD is the ego defense mechanism in super drive, linked to potty training and anal stage of development, obsessions are a defense against deeper emotional conflicts that cause guilt or anxiety

Eval topic 1

Nature v Nurture - nature: biological, serotonin and oxytocin levels, Humble et al. (oxytocin=positive correlation, serotonin=negative). nurture: Freud, how you were potty trained

eval topic 2

reliability - brain scans showing activity in frontal lobe, lab-based w/ scientific machinery

eval topic 3

determinism vs free-will - determinism: genetics, Murphy et al, hSert gene. free-will: cognitive, faulty thinking, believing negative thoughts are your responsibility