Obsessive-compulsive disorder from a cognitive-behavioural point of view

The prevalence of obsessive-compulsive disorder in the adult population is estimated at about 2–3%, while in children the prevalence of this disorder is higher, and it is considered to be one of the most common neuropsychiatric diseases in paediatric populations. Symptoms from the obsessive-compulsive disorder spectrum can vary in severity or occur with varying frequency. In severe cases, they are time-consuming and disorganise functioning, causing psychological stress not only to patients but often to those around them. The level of insight differentiates individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder, affecting the course of treatment. Low insight often accompanies poor susceptibility to pharmacotherapeutic and psychotherapeutic interactions, while high levels of criticism may inhibit the motivation to seek help, out of fear of social judgement. Obsessive-compulsive disorder deserves the attention of clinicians because, without appropriate treatment, the disorder can take a chronic form, often becoming a trigger for depression, social phobia, or addiction. American data show that 90% of respondents meeting the criteria for obsessive-compulsive disorder also suffer from another Axis I disorder. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is a method with proven effectiveness in the treatment of Axis I disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder. The first goal of this paper is to present cognitive models of obsessive-compulsive disorder that will allow clinicians to understand the nature of this condition. The second goal is to describe the possibilities and tools used in cognitive-behavioural psychotherapy of patients.