Theoretical models of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Abstract

In this article we present the most important features of anxiety disorders, together with the functionality and non-functionality of anxiety and in relation to that, the difference between anxiety and anxiety disorder. We also present the causes and symptomatology of such disorders. We consider the theoretical basis of anxiety and theories concerning the causes of anxiety, and introduce different types of anxiety disorders, and in particular obsessive compulsive-disorder. Together with consideration of the mechanisms of OCD we focus on theoretical explanations of the disorder, including presentation of different causes and treatments. Special attention is given to the cognitive-behavioural model which can be evaluated as very successful (as opposed to the model of cognitive deficit which is usually evaluated as unsuccessful) and new (neuro) biological models. In the article, we also present the therapies derived from these models, the results of research into various therapies, and give special attention to more modern integrative approaches (eg. multimodal and family-inclusive treatments) that show good results.