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[When thoughts become compulsions. Obsessive-compulsive disorder in children]

Per Hove Thomsen1

  • 1Arhus Universitetshospital, Børne- og Ungdomspsykiatrisk Hospital, Risskov. pht@buh.aaa.dk

Ugeskrift for Laeger
|November 17, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors. While often associated with adults, nearly two-thirds report childhood onset, with 1-1% of children and adolescents meeting diagnostic criteria.

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Child and Adolescent Mental Health
  • Neuroscience

Context:

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive obsessions and compulsive behaviors.
  • These symptoms are recognized by the individual as ego-dystonic, differentiating them from psychotic disturbances.
  • OCD affects both children and adults, with a significant portion of adult cases originating in childhood or early adolescence.

Purpose:

  • To summarize the key characteristics of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents.
  • To highlight the prevalence and onset patterns of pediatric OCD.
  • To underscore the global consistency in OCD prevalence across different cultures.

Summary:

  • OCD presents with persistent, unwanted obsessions and compulsions that individuals feel compelled to perform.
  • While previously underestimated in youth, current epidemiological data indicate a prevalence of 1-1% among children and adolescents.
  • A substantial majority of adults with OCD report symptom onset during childhood or early adolescence.

Impact:

  • Increased awareness of pediatric OCD is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention.
  • Understanding the childhood origins of OCD can inform long-term treatment strategies.
  • Recognizing the high prevalence in youth challenges historical underestimation and emphasizes the need for dedicated research and clinical focus.

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