OCD

I have not previously looked in depth at OCD and had a superficial understanding of the disorder. I didn't realize the complexities of OCD that are explained in the readings, possibly because of the simplicity the DSM portrays. I can see how the learning model can be used to explain OCD, but I wonder if the cognitive model might be more client friendly? The idea that the obsessions are normal and most people experience them, but some people just perceive them as a bit more threatening might allow the client to feel less stigmatized. The client may feel like they're crazy or be reluctant to share their obsessions, so setting the stage that this is somewhat common may be helpful. I wonder how COVID affected people with OCD or people who didn't know that they have OCD. We were told to wipe down all of our groceries or let them sit in the garage long enough for the germs to wear off. Before a pandemic, these compulsions would follow the contamination part of OCD, but now they are supposed to be normal? What do you do as a clinician when a client comes to you with this? Is it OCD or are they trying to avoid COVID? I would imagine there would be other areas that might or might not line up with OCD behavior that would help to narrow it down. 

I also can see how diagnosing OCD is difficult when it comes to religious practices. Judaism has an emphasis on hand washing and ritualistic practices surrounding the idea of being clean before praying. Many religions have rituals and customs that can appear irrational to someone who is unaware of the customs. In addition, the obsessions around pleasing God, being moral, or questioning existence are valid obsessions if you ask theologians or someone who practices religion. I read a book a while back ("The God-Shaped Brain") that discussed how one's perspective of God can contribute to mental health issues. The author would argue that the obsessions around God are likely unhealthy and that most Christians place an unnecessary pressure on themselves that negatively contributes to their mental health. I find that interesting and helping a religious client change their view of God could increase their mental health. With OCD, it might be a bit more difficult but it could be an interesting area to study.