Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is characterized by the occurrence of obsessions and/or compulsions. Most individuals with OCD have a tough time to resist their intrusive and obsessive thoughts and are unable to stop engaging in compulsive behaviours. Some of their compulsions are expressed as exaggerated behaviours and some superstitious behaviours can also be noticeable. One of the psychological treatment options, the cognitive model of OCD, looks at the intrusive thoughts as a normal phenomenon, however, they become problematic when the individuals continually obsess that something terrible might happen and they are responsible for the harm prevention. They engage themselves in avoidance, reassurance-seeking and cognitive or motor rituals to manage their fear.

References:

American Psychiatric Association, & American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders: DSM-5. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatri.

Kennerley, H., Kirk, J., & Westbrook, D. (2017). An introduction to cognitive behaviour therapy - Skills and applications(3rd ed.). London, England: Sage Publications Mental Health Canada. (2018). Diseases and Disorders - Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.