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Obsessive compulsive patients: familial frustration and criticism
L L Tynes1, C Salins, D K Winstead
1Dept of Psychiatry and Neurology, Tulane University Medical School, New Orleans, LA 70112.
Summary
Family members of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) patients often feel frustrated and criticize patients. Patients report high levels of perceived criticism at home, impacting OCD management.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Familial factors significantly influence patient compliance and outcomes in various medical and psychiatric settings.
- Understanding the dynamics between patients with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and their significant others is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reactions of significant others towards individuals with OCD.
- To assess the level of perceived criticism experienced by OCD patients from their family members.
Main Methods:
- A psychoeducational group setting was used for initial assessment.
- Nonpatients (significant others) completed the Relative's Reactions Questionnaire and the Control of Symptoms Schedule.
- OCD patients completed the Perceived Criticism Measure.
Main Results:
- Significant others reported frustration with the symptomatic behaviors of their loved ones with OCD.
- Significant others frequently responded with verbal criticism towards patients.
- Patients reported a moderately high level of criticism from significant others at home.
Conclusions:
- Family dynamics, particularly criticism from significant others, may negatively affect individuals with OCD.
- Interventions addressing family interactions and criticism could be beneficial for OCD patients.
- Further research with larger samples and diverse control groups is warranted.