Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is characterized by either obsessive thoughts and/or unwanted repetitive behaviors. Obsessions may include unwanted disturbing images or intrusive thoughts that the individual attempts to ignore or suppress with other thoughts or behaviors. Examples of obsessions may include thoughts that the individual has hurt someone, fear of contamination, and unwanted sexual thoughts. Repetitive behaviors or compulsions are conducted to eliminate intrusive thoughts. Some examples of compulsive behaviors include hand washing, checking, counting, repeating words, and praying. These rituals are performed excessively and cause a disturbance in the individual's ability to function. Medical research has shown that cognitive behavioral strategies such as exposure and response prevention are often effective and safe methods of reducing symptoms of OCD.

Contact Behavior Therapy of New York to help your child control Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.