SMILES: A Child-Centered OCD Recovery Model Derived Through Thematic Analysis

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents presents unique clinical challenges, requiring individualized care. Recovery is a subjective process, and a structured recovery model is needed to guide and support children during their journey. This study explores the meaning of recovery for children with OCD and develops a model that addresses their specific needs throughout treatment.

The central research question aimed to explore the meaning of recovery for children living with OCD. A purposive sampling approach was employed to recruit five participants each from the 7-12 years (children) and 13-17 years (adolescents) age groups, with theme saturation achieved after ten transcripts. Participants were required to have had OCD for at least six months and be in remission. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, with the final themes synthesized into a conceptual model, SMILES. Ethical approval from the institute and informed consent were obtained from the participants and their parents.

Participants identified six key areas of recovery. These areas, derived through inductive thematic analysis, form the components of the recovery model represented by the acronym SMILES, which stands for Sense of self, Mental Health and Well-being, Institution of school, Lifestyle, Extracurricular, and Social. The SMILES model can be used in two formats-Rainbow Recovery and Blooming Recovery-based on the child's preference.

The SMILES model can enhance clinical practice by aiding clinicians in establishing a connection with children, thereby facilitating the delivery of holistic care.