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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Symptoms

03/15/1998

Question:

What are the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder?

Answer:

Although there are individual differences as to how this disorder is manifested, general characteristics of obsessive compulsive disorders include the child or adult's obsessions of having thoughts, impulses or images in their minds that are recurrent and senseless; the compulsions, on the other hand, are the actions or behaviors that are repetitive and purposeful in response to the obsession. These actions are performed in a certain manner so as to prevent discomfort or to avoid a dreaded event. A simple example might be "not stepping on a crack in the sidewalk or you will break your mother's back"; people who clean all the time or keep everything demonstrate some characteristics of this disorder. Many of these actions interfere with their daily activities. For specific symptoms on this disorder, consult a health care provider for referral to a psychiatric professional.

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Go to the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder health topic, where you can:

Response by:

Marcia Hern, RN, EdD Marcia Hern, RN, EdD
Formerly:
College of Nursing
University of Cincinnati