Characteristics of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)

Characteristics of obsessive-compulsive
disorder (OCD)
Accompanying depression - ANSWER-accompanied low mood, lack enjoyment in
activities
involve other negative emotions
irrational guilt/ disgust

Anxiety and distress - ANSWER-unpleasant emotional experience
excessive anxiety cause both obsessions and compulsions

Avoidance - ANSWER-attempt to reduce anxiety keeping away from situations that
trigger

Behavioural characteristics of OCD - ANSWER-Compulsive behaviour
Avoidance

Cognitive characteristics of OCD - ANSWER-Obsessive thoughts
insight into excessive anxiety

Compulsions - ANSWER-result of obsessions
comprise intese/ uncontrollable urges
repetitively perform tasks/ behaviours
compulsions carried out- reduce distress/ prevent feared events

Compulsive behaviour - ANSWER-compulsions repeated
compelled to repeat
eg washing hands
reduce anxiety

Cycle of anxiety and distress - ANSWER-obsessive thoughts
unpleasant/ frightening
anxiety
urge repeat compulsion
anxiety

Emotional characteristics of OCD - ANSWER-Anxiety and distress
Accompanying depression

Example of avoidance - ANSWER-obsessive fear of germs
sufferer avoid empty rubbish bin
interfere normal life

Example of compulsions - ANSWER-obsessively washing hands to removed germs