How Do You Diagnose OCD In Children?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder where people have certain thoughts that they cannot get out of their mind. These thoughts often compel the OCD sufferer to engage in rituals or compulsions. These rituals are a misguided way to either stop the thoughts or to deter perceived bad events. In addition, the OCD sufferer has an overwhelming need to control her environment. The most common age for children to exhibit symptoms is around 10 years of age. Boys usually develop OCD before puberty, while girls develop it after. OCD is present when obsessive thoughts and rituals interfere with daily life. Notice if the child’s hands are raw or red. A fear of dirt and germs is common, so the OCD child will wash his hands constantly. A child with a fear of germs may also bathe or shower very frequently. You may notice that unusually large amounts of soap and paper towels are gone. Assess if schoolwork and grades are suffering. Because of the intrusive thoughts, many children h
