Obsessive Compulsive Behavior in Children

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition that usually begins in adolescence or young adulthood and is seen in 1 in 200 children and adolescents. OCD causes marked distress to its sufferers and interferes with normal life and functioning.

Definition

• Children with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder have recurrent and persistent thoughts and preoccupations with preventing a feared situation, maintaining order or other worries. To banish or relieve the worry, they feel a continual urge to repeat certain behaviors or mental tasks.

Cause

• OCD is a brain disorder and tends to run in families but can occur in children with no family history.

Obsessions

• Common obsessions among kids include fear of dirt or germs, need for order or symmetry, fear of illness or harm, lucky numbers and intrusive sounds or words.

Compulsions

• Compulsive rituals common among children include grooming, repetition, checking, ordering objects, counting, hoarding and cleaning.

Treatment

• Treatment for OCD often includes behavioral therapy to teach children to change their thoughts by changing their behavior. Some children require both therapy and medication to manage their OCD.