OCD Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is OCD?
A condition characterized by obsessions and/or compulsive behaviour
What are the three behavioural characteristics of OCD ?
- compulsions as repetitive
- compulsions reduce anxiety
- avoidance
Describe repetitive compulsions
Sufferers are compelled to repeat behaviour as a response to their obsessive thoughts (praying, hand washing)
Describe anxiety reduction through compulsions
- Compulsive behaviours are performed in attempt to manage the anxiety produced by obsessions
- hand washing as a result of an obsessive fear of germs
Describe avoidance OCD
Sufferers of OCD tend to try manage their OCD by avoiding situations that trigger anxiety (not coming into contact with germs)
What are the three emotional characteristics of OCD?
- anxiety & distress
- guilt and disgust
- accompanying depression
Describe anxiety & distress
- obsessive thoughts are unpleasant and frightening, causing overwhelming anxiety
- compulsions may also create anxiety
Describe accompanying depression
Anxiety accompanied by low mood and and lack of enjoyment in activities
Describe guilt and disgust
- Irrational guilt involved over minor moral issue
- disgust which may be directed against something external or to self
What are three cognitive characteristics of OCD?
- obsessive thoughts
- insight into excessive anxiety
- cognitive coping strategies
Describe obsessive thoughts
unpleasant thoughts that are recurring
(certain that door is left unlocked )
Describe cognitive coping strategies
Adopted to help with dealing with obsessions and manage anxiety
e.g. religious person tormented by guilt may respond by praying or meditating
Describe insight into excessive anxiety
- Sufferers are aware that their obsession and compulsions are not rational
- tend to be hyper vigilant > maintain constant alertness
