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Related Experiment Videos

Obsessive-compulsive spectrum of disorders: a defensible construct?

David J Castle1, Katharine A Phillips

  • 1Mental Health Research Institute and University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. dcastle@mhri.edu.au

The Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry
|February 16, 2006
PubMed
Summary

The obsessive-compulsive (OC) spectrum concept lacks a robust basis, with inconsistent evidence for including disorders like body dysmorphic disorder. A dimensional approach to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and related conditions may be more beneficial.

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A Multi-Symptom Circuit Architecture of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

medRxiv : the preprint server for health sciences·2025

Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Clinical Psychology
  • Neuroscience

Background:

  • The concept of an obsessive-compulsive (OC) spectrum is debated.
  • Understanding the boundaries and membership criteria of this spectrum is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To critically evaluate the scientific basis for the obsessive-compulsive (OC) spectrum of disorders.
  • To determine which specific disorders should be included within this putative spectrum.

Main Methods:

  • A selective literature review was conducted.
  • The review focused on three proposed members of the OC spectrum: body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis, and trichotillomania.

Main Results:

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is recognized as a heterogeneous condition.

Related Experiment Videos

  • The criteria for spectrum 'membership' are inconsistent, with varying levels of empirical support.
  • The basis for including specific disorders in the OC spectrum is not robust.

    • Conclusions:

    • The current OC spectrum model requires refinement.
    • Future developments should focus on behaviors and dimensions within OCD and related disorders.
    • A dimensional approach may offer a more fruitful framework for understanding these conditions.