The chemistry of doubt : understanding obsessive-compulsive disorder

Abstract

This study was designed to generate a more in-depth understanding of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder with particular emphasis given to the sufferers' subjective experience. A Qualitative phenomenological approach was utilised to describe the variety of existing types of obsessions and compulsions, and the way their life was affected by the disorder. The sample consists of six individuals (2 males and 4 females) who have suffered, or are presently suffering from OCD within an anxiety disorder. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data obtained through a semi-structured interview which consisted mainly of open-ended questions. From the obtained results, one can infer that OCD is a complex and vast disorder, which can have a debilitating effect on many aspects of the sufferer's quality of life. This anxiety disorder appears to involve physiological, cognitive and behavioural traits. These factors seem to combine to form a complex process that traps individuals in endless cycles of intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours, which cause extreme anxiety, and unless treated, has the potential of becoming disabling (de Silva & Rachman, 1998). The ideas and data that emerged from the study suggested that targeting faulty cognitive appraisals through cognitive-behavioural therapy, in addition to pharmacological treatment such as anti-depressants, beta-blockers and SSRis, can be an effective treatment to OCD.