Vorpahl
Psychology
Associates, LLC
Psychotherapy        Counseling        Parenting       Individuals       Groups      Teens      Children       Adults   
 
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Definition: A psychiatric disorder characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive actions, such as cleaning, checking, counting, or hoarding. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), one of the anxiety disorders, is a potentially disabling condition that can persist throughout a person's life. The individual who suffers from OCD becomes trapped in a pattern of repetitive thoughts and behaviors that are senseless and distressing but extremely difficult to overcome. OCD occurs in a spectrum from mild to severe, but if severe and left untreated, can destroy a person's capacity to function at work, at school, or even in the home. The obsessions are unwanted ideas or impulses that repeatedly well up in the mind of the person with OCD. Persistent fears that harm may come to self or a loved one, an unreasonable concern with becoming contaminated, or an excessive need to do things correctly or perfectly, are common. Again and again, the individual experiences a disturbing thought, such as, "My hands may be contaminated--I must wash them"; "I may have left the gas on"; or "I am going to injure my child." These thoughts are intrusive, unpleasant, and produce a high degree of anxiety. Sometimes the obsessions are of a violent or a sexual nature, or concern illness.
© http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=4610
Other Resources
Below are additional online resources that you may find helpful. By clicking any of these links you are leaving our site. The links are for informational purposes only. We do not guarantee the services or in any other way endorse any of the organizations listed.

Obsessive Compulsive Foundation
PsychCentral (OCD Screening Quiz)
KidsHealth
National Alliance of Mental Health
Daily Strength (OCD online Support Group)
Inspire (OCD online Support Group)
American Academy of Child & Adolscent Psychiatry
Mental Health America
Psychology Today
Understanding OCD
BrainPysics
© 2007 - 2011 Vorpahl Psychology Associates, LLC. All Rights Reserved                                                                                                                          Privacy Policy
Recommended Reading
The following reading material is recommended by Vorpahl Psychology Associates, LLC
Additional Reading Material
OCD Support - VHS Tapes
OCD in Children
OCD - Workbooks
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
OCD Selfhelp
Custom Search
OCD in Children & Adolescents
OCD Treatment
Obsessive Thoughts
Obsessive Love
258 Main Street
Suite 7
Medfield, MA 02052
Phone: 508.242.9666
Fax:     815.572.8941