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A cognitive theory of compulsive checking.

S Rachman1

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. rachman@unixg.ubc.ca

Behaviour Research and Therapy
|June 8, 2002
PubMed
Summary
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Compulsive checking, often seen in anxiety disorders, arises from a strong sense of responsibility to prevent harm. This behavior is sustained by factors like memory doubts and the perception of ongoing threats.

Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Psychiatry
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Compulsive checking is a common behavior in various anxiety disorders.
  • Existing models do not fully explain the persistence of compulsive checking behaviors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a new theoretical framework for understanding compulsive checking.
  • To identify key factors that maintain compulsive checking behaviors.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical analysis of compulsive checking.
  • Examination of the relationship between compulsive checking and anxiety disorders.
  • Review of treatment outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Compulsive checking is linked to a heightened sense of responsibility for preventing harm.

Related Experiment Videos

  • Intensity and duration are influenced by perceived responsibility, harm probability, and seriousness.
  • Recurrence is driven by a self-perpetuating cycle involving paradoxical increases in responsibility and perceived threat, memory deficits, and lack of threat resolution.

    • Conclusions:

    • The proposed model offers a novel perspective on the etiology and maintenance of compulsive checking.
    • Understanding these mechanisms can inform the development of more effective therapeutic interventions for anxiety disorders.