Definitions
What is an obsession?
An unwanted thought or sensation
What did Spencer have every day for lunch?
A peanut butter and jelly sandwich with BBQ chips
When are people typically diagnosed with OCD?
People are usually diagnosed with OCD in their late teen years or early adulthood.
What is a compulsion?
Performing an act repetitively in attempt to get rid of an obsession
What medication was prescribed to Spencer?
Zoloft or Paroxetine
What are some manifestations of OCD?
Fear of germs, fear of making a mistake, need for perfection, excessive handwashing...
What is the DSM-V?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The handbook used by health care professionals in the United States to assist in diagnosing mental health disorders.
What are some obsessions that Spencer experienced?
Obsessions with germs and dirt, excessive doubts and fears of forgetting something of significance, obsessions with perfection.
What are some of the risk factors for OCD?
What is a manifestation?
A condition that is an extension of the primary illness in question.
What are some compulsions that Spencer experienced?
Receptively washing his hands, repetively checking the door, counting rituals.
How is OCD diagnosed?
Referencing the criteria set for OCD within DSM-V along with collecting patient symptoms and history.
What is OCD
Intrusive thoughts that cause physical or mental acts in order to prevent or counteract the thoughts and relieve the distress.
How old was Spencer when he was diagnosed with OCD
17
For someone to have OCD, do they have to experience both obsessions and compulsions?
No. It is possible for an individual to experience only obsessions or only compulsions.