Question

Following are the major symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder?

• A. Contamination
• B. Pathological doubts
• C. Intrusive thoughts
• D. All the above

Hint:

Each option is a recognised major OCD symptom pattern.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterised by recurrent obsessions (intrusive, unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviours done to reduce anxiety). It has four classic major symptom patterns.

Step 2: Contamination is the most common pattern, an obsession about dirt or germs, usually followed by a washing compulsion (the washer).

Step 3: Pathological doubt is the second most common pattern, an obsession about whether a task was done correctly, followed by compulsive checking (the checker). Intrusive thoughts (pure obsessions) are the third pattern, recurrent obsessional thoughts, often of a sexual or aggressive nature, without a clear compulsion. Symmetry or precision is the fourth pattern.

Step 4: Since contamination, pathological doubts, and intrusive thoughts are all recognised major symptom patterns of OCD, the correct answer is All the above.