Executive Functions and Reinforcement Sensitivity in Women with Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms

Objective: Obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with cognitive and motivational deficits caused by abnormal activities in certain neural circuits. This study sets out to determine the contribution of each component of executive function and reinforcement sensitivity in prediction of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Method : In this cross-sectional study, the study population consisted of all adult women living in Sabzevar city (Iran). Using cluster sampling, 365 women were selected as the study sample. Participants completed the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory, Sensitivity to Punishment and Sensitivity to Reward Questionnaire - Revised and Clarified (SPSRQ-RC) as well as Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF). Data analysis was conducted using correlation and regression tests. Results: The results of stepwise regression analysis showed that inhibition, shift and initiation variables as well as sensitivity to punishment and reward were best predictors of obsessive-compulsive symptoms (adjusted R square = 0.34, F = 38.93, P < 0.0001). Conclusion: It seems that impaired executive functions in cognition and sensitivity to reinforcement in motivation contribute to the emergence or sustainability of obsessive-compulsive symptoms.