Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Compulsions and obsessive-compulsive disorders can manifest themselves in the form of obsessive thoughts or compulsive actions and occur very frequently in children and adolescents.

Those affected suffer from recurring, imposing thoughts and impulses, e.g. the fear of having done something wrong or of having defiled themselves. In some cases, compulsive actions are also performed, often related to control, order, and cleanliness, e.g., excessive hand washing. "Magical thinking" or safety behaviors may also occur.

Obsessive-compulsive disorders can trigger feelings of shame and guilt and place a heavy burden on children and adolescents, restricting them in their everyday lives.