OCD: behavioural, emotional and cognitive features

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterised by:

• Obsessions → intrusive, persistent thoughts

• Compulsions → repetitive behaviours performed to reduce anxiety

What are obsessions?

Obsessions are recurrent, intrusive and distressing thoughts, often related to themes such as contamination, safety, or harm.

What are compulsions?

Compulsions are repetitive behaviours or mental acts carried out in response to obsessions, with the aim of reducing anxiety or preventing a feared outcome.

What are the three behavioural characteristics of OCD?

• Compulsions

• Avoidance

• Social impairment

What are compulsions in OCD?

Compulsions include:

• Checking behaviours (e.g. repeatedly checking locks)

• Ritualistic behaviours (e.g. excessive hand washing)

• Hoarding behaviours

These behaviours are performed to reduce anxiety caused by obsessions.

What is avoidance in OCD?

Avoidance involves avoiding situations that trigger obsessions, such as avoiding public places due to fear of contamination.

What is social impairment in OCD?

Social impairment refers to difficulty maintaining relationships or engaging in normal activities due to anxiety and compulsive behaviours.

What are the two emotional characteristics of OCD?

• Extreme anxiety

• Distress and depression

What is extreme anxiety in OCD?

Extreme anxiety arises from:

• Persistent obsessive thoughts

• Fear associated with these thoughts

• Anxiety caused by resisting compulsions

What is distress/depression in OCD?

Distress and depression involve:

• Low mood

• Feelings of loss of control

• Inability to engage in enjoyable activities

What are the two cognitive characteristics of OCD?

• Recurrent (intrusive) thoughts

• Awareness of irrationality

What are recurrent thoughts in OCD?

Recurrent thoughts are intrusive, unpleasant, and anxiety-provoking thoughts, often focused on worst-case scenarios or catastrophic outcomes.

What is understanding of irrationality in OCD?

Individuals with OCD are aware that their thoughts and behaviours are irrational, but are unable to control them, which increases distress.