Signs and Symptoms
The hallmark symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder are:
- Repeated purposeless or ritualistic behaviors, such as checking and washing (compulsions)
- Repeated unwanted thoughts or images (obsessions)
When to Seek Professional Help
You should seek professional help and guidance when the child:
- is unable to control his/her thoughts or behavior
- is overly concerned with germs or dirt
- needs things to be ordered or arranged in certain ways
- checks windows, doors, lockers
- washes hands excessively
- lines up toys or possessions in particular ways
- gets upset if interrupted
- erases excessively when writing or rereads sentences over and over
- seeks multiple reassurances from others
How Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is Treated
A number of treatment methods have proven effective. These include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which may be used in conjunction with CBT
The Risks of Not Treating a Child with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
A child with undetected or untreated obsessive-compulsive disorder is at risk for:
- Difficulty completing homework or other academic work due to focus on getting things perfect
- Symptoms that are severe and time consuming may affect self-esteem, friendships, and family functioning
- Depression, social isolation and anger due to feelings of loss of control
More Information
For more information and a list of related articles, visit the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder page of our A-Z Disorder Guide.
