Obsessive-compulsive behavior: an overview of four psychological frameworks

Four frameworks for understanding obsessive-compulsive behavior have been presented. It is apparent that there is no single, simple basis for obsessive-compulsive symptomatology. Obsessions and compulsions are manifestations of different psychological processes and may exist in conjunction with many types of mental illness in addition to those presented. With increased knowledge about the dynamics of obsessions and compulsions, the mental health professional will achieve a greater understanding of the client who expresses himself through these symptoms.