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Related Experiment Videos

A cognitive theory of obsessions

S Rachman1

  • 1Psychology Department, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada.

Behaviour Research and Therapy
|September 23, 1997
PubMed
Summary

Obsessions stem from misinterpreting thoughts as catastrophic. Weakening these misinterpretations reduces obsessions, guiding a focused treatment approach for obsessive thoughts.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychology
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Mental Health

Background:

  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by intrusive thoughts.
  • The cognitive model of OCD suggests misinterpretations play a key role.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a theory linking catastrophic misinterpretations to obsessions.
  • To explore factors influencing vulnerability and thought origins.
  • To derive a treatment strategy from the proposed theory.

Main Methods:

  • Theoretical analysis of cognitive processes in obsessions.
  • Review of existing evidence supporting the cognitive model.
  • Deductive reasoning to formulate a treatment approach.

Main Results:

  • Obsessions are hypothesized to arise from catastrophic misinterpretations of thought significance.
  • Obsession persistence is directly related to the continuation of these misinterpretations.
  • Obsession reduction is linked to weakening these cognitive distortions.

Conclusions:

  • Catastrophic misinterpretations are central to the maintenance of obsessions.
  • Understanding thought origins and vulnerability is crucial.
  • A focused cognitive strategy can effectively treat obsessions.

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