Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder which can afflict a person throughout his/her lifetime: "The individual who suffers from OCD becomes trapped in a pattern of repetitive thoughts and behaviors that are senseless and distressing but extremely difficult to overcome" (http:www.nimh.nih.gov/publicat/ocd.htm). Obsessions and compulsions are the two main components of this disorder. The former are often highly negative such as an ever-present fear of germs. Compulsions such as repetitive handwashing are rituals designed to lessen anxiety produced by obsessions. Depending on the severity, OCD can have an adverse effect in every aspect of that person's life. The outlook is optimistic, however, because research has shown that even people suffering from severe OCD may benefit from medication, behavioral therapy, or a combination of the two.
Researchers have gained much insight into the cause of the disorder by comparing OCD brains with......

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Title: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Approximate Word Count: 1042
Approximate Pages: 5 (250 words per double-spaced page)

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