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13 - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder:

Treating Obsessions and Associated Behavioral Responses

from Part Three - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Associated Disorders

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  06 January 2022

By
Gillian M. Alcolado
Edited by
Gillian Todd  and
Rhena Branch
Gillian Todd
Affiliation:
University of East Anglia
Rhena Branch
Affiliation:
University of East Anglia
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Summary

“Pure” obsessions were once considered untreatable. This chapter provides clarity on the definition of obsessive thoughts and their associated behavioral sequelae (mental and physical rituals, reassurance seeking, and avoidance). The reader will become familiar with the universality of intrusive thoughts and the mechanism by which they convert to obsessive thoughts in certain individuals. The most common misinterpretations of obsessive thoughts are outlined (including fears that one is crazy, immoral, and/or dangerous). Up-to-date research on evidence-based treatment for this symptom is reviewed. Structured assessment tools and options for open-ended questions are provided for measuring not only symptoms, but the maladaptive beliefs associated with these symptoms. A case vignette of a new mother who began having intrusive thoughts of harming her infant is used to illustrate the case formulation, as well as behavioral and cognitive interventions. The chapter ends with relapse prevention strategies and suggested further reading.

Keywords

obsessive-compulsive disordercognitive behavioral therapyobsessionspure obsessionscognitive therapyintrusive thoughtsexposure and response preventionbehavioral experimentsthought–action fusionreassurance seeking
Type
Chapter
Information
Evidence-Based Treatment for Anxiety Disorders and Depression
A Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Compendium
 , pp. 252 - 268
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2022

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References

Further Recommended Reading

Clark, D. A. (2003). Cognitive-behavioural therapy for OCD. Guilford.Google Scholar
Foa, E. B., Yadin, E., & Lichner, T. K. (2012). Exposure and response (ritual) prevention for obsessive-compulsive disorder: Therapist guide (Treatments that work) (2nd ed.). Oxford University Press.Google Scholar
Grayson, J. (2014). Freedom from obsessive-compulsive disorder. Berkley.Google Scholar
Rachman, S. (2003). The treatment of obsessions. Oxford University Press.Google Scholar
Wilhelm, S., & Steketee, G. S. (2006). Cognitive therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder: A guide for professionals. New Harbinger.Google Scholar

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