Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Action Signs*:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) typically begins in early childhood or adolescence.  Children with OCD have frequent and uncontrollable thoughts (called “obsessions”) and may perform routines or rituals (called “compulsions”) in an attempt to eliminate the thoughts.  In the case of OCD, these obsessions and compulsions take up so much time that they interfere with daily living and can cause a young person a great deal of anxiety.  Those with the disorder often repeat behaviors to avoid some imagined consequence.  Some common compulsions for people with OCD include:

  • Excessive hand washing due to a fear of germs
  • Counting
  • Repeating words silently
  • Rechecking completed tasks

*The Action Signs Project Peter Jensen, MD et al, REACH Institute

Clinical Guidelines:

AACAP: Summary of Practice Parameters for the Assessment and Treatment of Children and Adolescents with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Volume 37, Oct. 1998

AACAP Summary of Practice Parameters for the Assessment and Treatment of Chidren and Adolescents with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Volume 37, Oct. 1998 Supplement


Rating Scales, Diagnosis, and Evaluation:

Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (YBOCS) for ages 14+

Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS) for ages 6-14

Medication

When should medication be considered for children with OCD?: Information from the Obsessive Compulsive Foundation web site

Parent information and handouts:

AACAP Facts for Families: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children and Adolescents

The Obssessive Compulsive Foundation of Greater Boston web site includes a provider directory (directory of providers who treat OCD), information about insurance, and a listing of speakers in the Boston area.