Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Teenagers: A Medical Perspective

This paper explores the neurological and medical foundations of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in adolescents, emphasizing that it is not merely behavioral but biologically rooted. It discusses how brain circuits(especially the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical loop), neurotransmitters (like serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate), and genetic factors contribute to the disorder’s development. The paper also reviews environmental triggers such as stress and infections (e.g., PANDAS). A qualitative study of 18 teenagers with OCD highlights how most view their condition as a medical brain disorderrather than a personality flaw. The findings show that SSRIs and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT/ERP) are the most effective treatments, though both can have challenges like side effects and emotional difficulty. OCD was found to significantly affect school performance, relationships, and family life, but treatment improved outcomes for many. The conclusion stresses the need for early diagnosis, combined medical and psychological treatment, and family involvement to help adolescents manage OCD and prevent long-term effects.