1. Home
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Special Needs Children

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

By Terri Mauro, About.com

Definition:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder in which an individual is bombarded with unwanted and disturbing thoughts and develops compulsive or ritualistic behaviors to prevent or disarm those thoughts. These thoughts and behaviors would have to have a serious, significant and harmful effect on a child's life and functioning before an OCD diagnosis would be made. Treatments for OCD include cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication.

Get more information.

Also Known As: Obessive Compulsive Disorder, Child-Onset Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Explore Special Needs Children
About.com Special Features

Stay connected and entertained with reviews on tips on the latest HDTVs, cellphones and more. More >

Reclaim the morning and your sanity with these easy recipes, tips, and timesaving ideas. More >

  1. Home
  2. Parenting & Family
  3. Special Needs Children
  4. Behavior Issues
  5. +Diagnosis Index
  6. Tourette Syndrome
  7. TS Related Disorders
  8. What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.