Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a relatively common condition that affects between 2- 3% of all people. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause anxiety and compulsions are behaviors constructed to relieve this anxiety. There are many subtypes of Obsessive-Compulsive (O-C) behaviors that are generally not recognized as Obsessive-Compulsive conditions. These lesser known “spectrum” disorders are generally treatable and respond to the behavioral and medical treatment of mainstream OCD.

“Health anxiety” is one of the spectrum disorders with many variants. This anxiety can manifest itself in the form of hypochondriasis, which is the belief that one has an illness but it has yet to be identified; it may also involve obsessive anxiety about contracting a specific disease or disease state. There are individuals who obsess about their appearance (Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Eating Disorders, etc.) and those who are concerned about the effects they have on others (i.e. germs, bad breath, etc.). Additionally, obsessive concerns about aging and compulsive attempts to counteract the effects of aging have long been recognized as health anxieties that are on the rise in our society.

Another area of O-C spectrum disorders is categorized by problematic motor/muscle behaviors. These include complex motor and vocal tics (Tourette’s), obsessive hair pulling (Trichotillimania), skin picking, nail biting, scratching and grooming rituals. These body-focused repetitive behaviors are often unconscious and may increase when under stress.

A more familiar sub-type of spectrum disorders has to do with perfectionism or having to have things “just right”. As demonstrated on the popular TV show “Monk”, this disorder is based on the belief that there must be symmetry or order in everything. This can relate to one’s outside surroundings, as well as internal thoughts. It can include a wide array of obsessions and compulsions which can interfere with a person’s daily life.

Obsessive doubt or mistrust of oneself or others, or preoccupation with the well-being of loved ones, constitute another area of O-C spectrum disorders. Commonly recognized are “checkers”, or reassurance seekers, but there are many variations. For example, pathological jealousy occurs when a member of a couple doubts emotions and/or faithfulness of the other and performs compulsions to seek reassurance, via investigations or questioning.

Financial disorders are increasingly recognized as part of the O-C spectrum. These can run the gamut from money hoarding, excessive collecting, excessive shopping and spending, to excessive frugality and obsessions about money.

Finally there are the areas of “pure” obsessive, scrupulosity (excessive prayer and concerns of piousness and morality), and what’s called “obsessive slowness”.

There are many spectrum disorders that are being increasingly recognized and studied. Treatments usually include various combinations of behavioral therapy and medications effective in relieving symptoms.

For more information, please visit the Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation website (www.OCFoundation.org) or feel free to call me to discuss concerns or ask questions at 847-413-9700, ext. 317.

Timothy Re, Psy.D., CADC

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