OCD (behavioural, emotional and cognitive characteristics)

What is OCD

An anxiety disorder where anxiety arises from both obsessions (persistent thoughts) and compressions (behaviours that are repeated over and over again). Compulsions are a response to obsessions and the person relieves compressions will reduce anxiety.

Outline the behavioural characteristics of OCD?

Compulsions: behaviours are performed to reduce anxiety created by obsessions. They are repetitive and unconcealed for example hand washing

Avoiding: keeping away from situations that trigger OCD/anxiety

Outline the emotional characteristics of OCD?

Anxiety, worry and distress: the obsessions and compulsions of source of considerable anxiety and distress. Sufferers are aware that behaviour is excessive and this causes feelings of embarrassment and Shame.

Guilt and disgust: OCD often involves for the negative emotions such as a rational guilt or disgust, which may be directed against something external like dirt or at the individual.

Accompanying depression: OCD is often of comforted by depression (low mood and a lack of enjoyment). Compulsive behaviour and brings temporary belief from anxiety.

Outline cognitive characteristics of OCD?

Obsessive thoughts: Obsessions are recurrent intrusive thoughts for e.g. ‘germs are everywhere’.

Insight into excessive anxiety: The person recognises that the obsessional thoughts or impulses are a product of their own mind, but they feel that they cannot control them.

Hyper vigilance: Sufferers maintain constant alertness and keep attention focused on potential hazards.

What is co-mobility?

Two mental health problems, at the same time e.g. people with OCD generally also have depression.

List 3 subtypes of OCD

1. Hoarding

2. Contamination obsessions with cleaning compulsions

3. Symmetry obsessions with ordering compulsions