Exploring the lived experience of individuals with primarily obsessional obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): A qualitative study focusing on relationships and help-seeking

Guy, Virginia

Abstract

There has been little research focused specifically on individuals experiencing primarily obsessional obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Primarily obsessional OCD is typically characterised by unwanted thoughts of a sexual, violent, or blasphemous nature with covert compulsions such as mental rituals (e.g., repeating phrases), or reassurance-seeking. Individuals with primarily obsessional OCD can experience shame and may fear seeking professional help. Furthermore, research suggests that the themes of intrusive thoughts in primarily obsessional OCD can be stigmatised by the public and misinterpreted mental health professionals. The aim of present study was to gain a broad understanding of how individuals with primarily obsessional OCD experience their relationships and help-seeking in the context of their lives. Online qualitative surveys were used to collect data from 70 participants aged between 18– 68 years, who either self-identified as, or had received a formal diagnosis of primarily obsessional OCD. Surveys served as one recruitment tool among others to identify participants willing to take part in an online or telephone interview. Four participants took part in the interview. The survey data and interview transcriptions were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis informed by a critical realist perspective. The thematic analysis led to the development of four overarching themes. These were 1. “The Social Isolation of OCD: Physically and Psychologically Distancing and Disconnecting from Close Relationships”, 2. “Hidden in Plain Sight: The Predicament of Disclosure”, 3. “Perceived Misunderstanding and Misinterpretation of OCD in Personal and Professional Contexts” and 4. “Support Outside the Therapy Room – Help or Hinderance?”. Each theme reported on different challenges that participants faced in managing their OCD in the context of their interpersonal lives, as well as issues arising when they attempted to seek support within professional therapeutic contexts. The findings suggested that individuals with primarily obsessional OCD can struggle to feel supported both within their interpersonal relationships and within a professional help seeking context. This suggests that counselling psychologists and other mental health professionals need to consider the interpersonal difficulties these individuals face that could be adding to their distress and consider involving family or partners in their therapy. Furthermore, they need to support individuals’ understanding of their experience and to respect and work with their perspective and how they choose to define their experience.

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: May 16, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 12, 2023
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/10794581
• Award Date: Sep 12, 2023