PSYCHOPATHOLOGY ( the bio approach to explaining/treating OCD)

Question 1

Can you outline the genetic explanation to OCD ( SERT and COMT GENES)

Answer 1

OCD can be inherited through genes. The COMT gene results in higher levels of dopamine inn the brain , high dopamine activity in certain brain areas is thought to be linked to the obsessions and compulsions seen in OCD.
A mutation in the SERT gene can lead to lower levels of serotonin in the brain, low serotonin is associated with increased anxiety , a common feature of OCD , and may disrupt the communication between brain regions involved in regulating behavior.

Question 2

Can you outline the neural explanation to OCD ( abnormal levels of neurotransmitters & abnormal brain circuits)

Answer 2

Abnormal levels of neurotransmitters : Low levels of serotonin are consistently found in individuals with OCD . This deficiency may prevent the brain from regulating intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.

Increased dopamine activity may contribute to OCD , particularly to the compulsive aspect of the disorder eg. checking and cleaning.

Abnormal brain circuits : The OFC detects potential threats and sends signals . In OCD the OFC may become overactive , leading to exaggerated sense of threat and the repeated urge to act ( clean , check )

Question 3

Evaluate this explanation

Answer 3

STRENGTHS

Twin studies show higher concordance rates for OCD in monozygotic ( identical) twins than dizygotic ones, suggesting a genetic influence.

Effective treatments support the theory : SSRIs , which increase serotonin levels , successfully reduce OCD symptoms in many patients . This supports the idea that neurotransmitter imbalances , particularly serotonin dysfunction , play a role in OCD.

WEAKNESSES

Twin studies do not show 100% concordance in identical twins , suggesting environmental factors also play a role. This limits the explanatory power of purely genetic theories.

Correlation vs causation : biological findings ( low serotonin or overactive OFC ) are correlational.
It’s unclear whether these factors cause OCD or are consequences of it

Question 4

Outline the biological approach to treating OCD

Answer 4

Drug therapy :
SSRIs ( Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) : They increase levels of serotonin by preventing it from being reabsorbed ( reuptaken) into the presynaptic neuron. Helps reduce the anxiety and obsessive thoughts by improving mood regulation. Example of SSRIs are prozacs

Alternatives to SSRIs : Tricyclic antidepressants ( Clomipramine ) . Used if SSRIs are not effective , but have more side effects.

Anti-anxiety drugs eg. Benzodiazepines . They enhance the effectt of GABA , a calming neurotransmitter that reduces neural activity in the brain. Reduces anxiety and produces a sedative effect.

Question 5

Evaluate the bio approach in treating OCD

Answer 5

STRENGTHS :
Effective for many patients : research shows that SSRIs significantly reduce symptoms for 60-70% of OCD sufferers. Soomro conducted a meta analysis and found that SSRIs were more effective than placebos in treating OCD , especially when combined with CBT.
This supports the idea that correcting serotonin imbalances can improve symptoms.

Cost effective and Accessible : Drug therapy is relatively cheap compared to psychological treatments like CBT , making it more accessible through healthcare systems. Medication is also non-disruptive patients can take a pill daily and continue with their routine.

LIMITATIONS

Side effects : Although SSRIs are generally well- tolerated , they can cause side effects like nausea , headaches , insomnia. These side effects can cause some patients to stop taking the medication , reducing effectiveness.

Not a permanent solution : Drug therapy manages symptoms , but does not address the root psychological causes of OCD. When medication is topped , symptoms often return , especially if therapy hasn’t addressed obsessive thought patterns.

Individual differences : Not all patients respond to SSRIs . Around 30-40% show little to no improvement. This may be due to genetic variability or the presence of other underlying issues. eg trauma , learned behaviours) suggesting a one-size-fits all approach is not ideal