Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children and Adolescence

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric condition with a 2% lifetime prevalence in child and adolescent populations. OCD can lead to severe impairment in family, academic, and social functioning, as well as place the individual at risk for development of secondary mental disorders. Patients with OCD show remarkable similarities in clinical presentation, and have distinct profiles on cognitive, behavioral, and psychological measures. Advances in behavioral interventions and psychopharmacology have provided effective treatments for OCD. A review of the literature is presented, with special emphasis on clinical presentation, evaluation, and treatment options. Research findings and proposed etiological mechanisms are also discussed.