Testing the autogenous-reactive model of obsessions

Two independent studies were conducted to examine the autogenous-reactive subtype model of obsessions [Lee and Kwon, 2003]. Study 1 demonstrated that 30 obsessive-compulsive (OCD) patients' responses to autogenous versus reactive obsessions differed significantly with respect to emotional reactions, cognitive appraisals, and control strategies. Study 2 compared OCD patients whose primary obsessions were of the autogenous subtype (n=13) with OCD patients whose primary obsessions were of the reactive subtype (n=14). Results revealed significant differences between these two groups on several OCD-related domains including OCD symptom profiles, perfectionistic personality features, and dysfunctional beliefs. Theoretical and clinical implications are discussed.