OCD: characteristics

Question 1

What is OCD characterised by?

Answer 1

Obsessions and compulsions

Question 2

What are obsessions?

Answer 2

Recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges or images that are unwanted and obtrusive

Question 3

What are compulsions?

Answer 3

Repetitive behaviours or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession

Question 4

What is the DSM-V criteria for OCD?

Answer 4

• a presence of obsessions, compulsions or both
• obsessions and compulsions are time consuming (1h+ a day) for 2 weeks or more and cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational or other areas of functioning
• not linked to any other substance or anxiety disorder

Question 5

What are some common obsessions?

Answer 5

Physical contamination
Mental contamination
Disasters in house / to people
Thoughts about violently harming others

Question 6

What are some common compulsions?

Answer 6

Hand washing
Counting
Repeating words silently
Ordering objects

Question 7

Behavioural characteristics of OCD:

Answer 7

Compulsions
Avoidance behaviour

Question 8

Emotional characteristics of OCD:

Answer 8

Guilt and disgust
Anxiety

Question 9

Cognitive characteristics of OCD:

Answer 9

Acknowledgement that their anxiety is irrational and excessive
Obsessive thoughts