OCD

OCD involves persistent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviours or mental acts performed to reduce distress.

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What it is

OCD in neurodevelopmental contexts involves persistent thoughts and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals aimed at reducing distress.

Signs in children

Excessive worry about contamination or mistakes
Repetitive checking, counting, or ordering rituals
Distress when routines are disrupted
Taking unusually long to complete tasks
Seeking repeated reassurance from adults

Signs in adults

Intrusive thoughts that feel impossible to ignore
Compulsions that temporarily reduce anxiety
Significant time lost to rituals daily
Avoidance of triggers that interfere with life
Shame about thoughts leading to secrecy

How WhyTheyThink screens for it

Items address repetitive behaviors, distress around order or safety, and intrusive thought patterns across modes.

Frequently asked questions

Is this screening for all types of OCD?

It covers common neurodevelopmental presentations. A clinician evaluates specific subtypes during assessment.

Can children be screened for OCD?

Yes, through parent mode. Many childhood OCD patterns are visible to caregivers before a child can name them.

Does a high score mean my child has OCD?

It means patterns align with items associated with OCD. Professional evaluation determines diagnosis and treatment.