Chapter 16 - Cognitive Aspects of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Children

Abstract

This chapter discusses the cognitive aspects of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in children. OCD in children and adolescents looks remarkably similar to the disorder in adults. The course of OCD in children is usually gradual and waxes and wanes depending on perceived stress in the child's life. In the absence of treatment, spontaneous recovery is rare, and a diagnosis of OCD in childhood is associated with an increased risk for developing other anxiety, mood, or personality disorders. Cognitive-behavioral treatment for children and adolescents has included mainly behavioral interventions in the form of graded exposure to the feared stimulus with prevention of the compulsive behavior— that is, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Treatment of childhood OCD typically follows the cognitive-behavioral approach used for adults. Young children typically are not capable of placing their current experiences into a perspective as large as that of adults, children may benefit from cognitive interventions specifically addressing their faulty beliefs and appraisals. In addition, children are more prone to be non-compliant than adults and, hence, may benefit from the cognitive interventions that aims at enhancing their motivation.