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Related Experiment Videos

Compulsive checking behaviors in generalized anxiety disorder.

A J Schut1, L G Castonguay, T D Borkovec

  • 1The Pennsylvania State University, PA 16802, USA. ajs131@psu.edu

Journal of Clinical Psychology
|May 10, 2001
PubMed
Summary
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Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is linked to compulsive checking behaviors, which may help individuals avoid unpleasant emotions. This study found checking compulsions are more common in GAD than previously thought.

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Anxiety Disorders

Background:

  • Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is characterized by excessive worry.
  • Compulsive behaviors, such as checking, are increasingly recognized in GAD.
  • The relationship between worry, GAD, and compulsive checking requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the prevalence of obsessions and compulsions in GAD clients.
  • To examine alexithymia levels in individuals with GAD, differentiating between checkers and non-checkers.
  • To explore the potential role of compulsive checking as a mechanism for avoiding affective experiences in GAD.

Main Methods:

  • Study 1: Assessed obsessions and compulsions in 107 diagnosed GAD clients.
  • Study 2: Measured alexithymia using the Toronto Alexithymia Scale-20 in GAD checkers (n=31), GAD non-checkers (n=30), and non-GAD controls (n=27).

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Main Results:

  • Compulsive checking behaviors were found to be more common in GAD than previously anticipated.
  • Individuals with GAD who engage in compulsive checking may use these behaviors to avoid distressing emotional experiences.
  • Alexithymia levels were examined in relation to GAD and checking behaviors.

Conclusions:

  • Compulsive checking is a significant feature in some individuals with GAD.
  • Compulsive checking in GAD may serve as a coping mechanism to avoid negative affect.
  • Further research is warranted to understand the interplay between GAD, worry, and compulsive behaviors.