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Obsessive-compulsive syndromes in older adolescents
1Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatric Unit, University of Turin, Italy.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|January 8, 2000
Summary
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects older male adolescents similarly to adults. Subthreshold obsessive-compulsive syndrome (sOCS) is common and may be a normal adolescent phenomenon.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Adolescent Mental Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a significant mental health concern.
- Understanding the prevalence of OCD and related conditions in adolescents is crucial for early intervention.
- Subthreshold obsessive-compulsive syndrome (sOCS) requires further investigation in adolescent populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and subthreshold obsessive-compulsive syndrome (sOCS).
- To investigate these conditions in a representative sample of older male adolescents in Piedmont, Italy.
Main Methods:
- Interviewed 1,883 Italian Defence Force recruits using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule.
- Diagnosed sOCS for individuals with symptoms but lacking severity criteria for impairment.
Main Results:
- Point prevalence of OCD was 2.0%, lifetime prevalence was 2.6%.
- Current diagnosis of sOCS was observed in 12.3% of subjects.
- Prevalence rates did not differ by area of residence or occupational status.
Conclusions:
- OCD prevalence in older male adolescents is comparable to adult rates.
- sOCS is frequently reported in adolescents and may be a normal developmental finding.
- Findings highlight the importance of considering sOCS in adolescent mental health assessments.