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Obsessions and compulsions in Asperger syndrome and high-functioning autism
Ailsa J Russell1, David Mataix-Cols, Martin Anson
1Department of Psychology, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College, London, UK. a.russell@iop.kcl.ac.uk
Summary
Obsessive-compulsive behaviors are common in adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and cause significant distress, similar to those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Many with ASD experience moderate symptom interference.
Area of Science:
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders
- Psychiatric Disorders
Background:
- Obsessive-compulsive behaviors are prevalent and impairing in autistic-spectrum disorders (ASD).
- Limited research compares these behaviors in ASD to those in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare obsessive-compulsive behaviors in adults with high-functioning ASD and adults with primary OCD.
Main Methods:
- Adults with high-functioning ASD (n=40) and adults with OCD (n=45) were assessed using the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale and Symptom Checklist.
- OCD symptoms were differentiated from ASD-related stereotypic behaviors and interests.
Main Results:
- Obsessive-compulsive symptom frequencies were similar between the ASD and OCD groups.
- Somatic obsessions and repeating rituals were more frequent in the OCD group.
- While OCD group had higher symptom severity, 50% of the ASD group reported moderate to severe symptom interference.
Conclusions:
- Obsessions and compulsions are frequent in adults with high-functioning ASD.
- These symptoms are linked to considerable distress and functional impairment in the ASD population.