Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What are the two main behavioural characteristics of OCD?

Compulsions (repetitive, reduce anxiety) and and avoidance behaviour.

What are compulsions in OCD?

Repetitive and intrusive behaviours that reduce anxiety by acting on obsessive thoughts.

How is avoidance behaviour reinforced in OCD?

It is negatively reinforced because avoiding the stimulus prevents anxiety from obsessive thoughts and compulsions.

What are the three emotional characteristics of OCD?

Guilt and disgust, depression, and anxiety.

Why do people with OCD often experience depression?

The constant compulsion to perform repetitive behaviours interferes with daily life and relationships.

Why does OCD cause anxiety?

Patients recognize that their obsessive thoughts are irrational and may feel overwhelmed.

What are the three cognitive characteristics of OCD?

Awareness of excessive anxiety, cognitive strategies to cope, and obsessive thoughts.

Why is recognizing excessive anxiety a hallmark of OCD?

Patients understand their anxiety is irrational but still feel compelled to act on obsessions.

What are cognitive strategies in OCD?

Techniques like carrying multiple bottles of hand sanitizer to manage obsessions.

What are obsessive thoughts in OCD?

Repetitive, intrusive, and anxiety-inducing thoughts focused on the stimulus, leading to compulsions.