Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Inventory: obsessions and compulsions in a nonclinical sample

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Clinical Psychology
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) research is expanding into nonclinical populations.
• Validation of self-report instruments against diagnostic interviews is crucial for accurate sample selection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the predictive validity of the Maudsley Obsessional-Compulsive Inventory (MOCI).
• To determine if MOCI scores correlate with diagnostic interview findings for obsessive-compulsive disorder and other anxiety disorders in nonclinical samples.

Main Methods:

• The study utilized the Anxiety Disorders Interview Schedule (ADIS), a semi-structured interview based on DSM-III criteria.
• Participants included individuals scoring in the top 2% and a normal range on the MOCI.
• Interviews were conducted 6-7 months after MOCI administration.

Main Results:

• High MOCI scorers reported significantly more frequent, severe, and disturbing obsessions and compulsions.
• The high MOCI group also experienced increased general worry and related physiological symptoms.
• No significant differences were found between groups for simple phobia or social phobia symptoms.

Conclusions:

• The MOCI demonstrates predictive validity for identifying individuals with specific obsessive-compulsive traits in nonclinical settings.
• Findings support the MOCI's utility for research on obsessive-compulsive disorder in general populations.
• The MOCI appears to specifically capture OCD-related symptoms rather than a broad range of anxiety disorders.