Very early-onset Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in pre-schoolers: A prospective case series

Abstract

Normative Obsessive-compulsive (OC) like behaviors can be common in early childhood. Very young children rarely can present with significantly impairing OC phenomenon associated with severe accommodative behaviors, which may warrant interventions. We describe three pre-schoolers with an onset of impairing OC symptoms at 28-, 21-, and 36-months of ages. An eclectic psychosocial approach based on Behaviorism, Attachment, Sensitive Parenting, Developmental, and Family systems was used. The children were followed-up for one to three years. The cases highlight the pattern of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders (OCD) in very young children and emphasize the utility of non-pharmacological intervention in this age group.