An estimated 1 percent of the adult population suffers from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition in which thought is excessive and leads to repetitive behaviors and routines. But it's an ailment that, in most cases, begins much earlier than adulthood, and the earlier individuals and parents can identify OCD symptoms in children, the better their chance of learning to control the disease will be.
Prevalence of OCD in Children
Medical experts estimate that as many as 3 percent of children and teens exhibit the symptoms of OCD. 20 percent of all people who have OCD in the U.S. have experienced their first symptoms before reaching the age of 10. Alarmingly, the already large estimates don't account for cases of OCD in children that exist but go undiagnosed. People and children living ordinary lives may not realize that their symptoms are unusual.
Children are especially vulnerable. Their limited understanding of their actions and how they affect their surroundings prevents them from recognizing the onset of symptoms and informing someone who can help. It is not only the duty of medical professionals to identify the signs of OCD in children – parents, too, must take the time to observe, documents, and reflect upon unusual behaviors in children.
Importance of Diagnosing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Early|
The daily lives of children, which are generally dominated by schoolwork and social interaction, may be affected by the presence of OCD in the following ways:
- Separation from their environment – Children with OCD may spend inordinate amounts of time lost in thought. Their inability to remain presents can begin to have a negative effect on their inclination to complete schoolwork and participate in discussions.
- Unusual propensity for distraction – Kids suffering from OCD may also find themselves quickly moving from one thought to another subconsciously. Even if the material in front of them is intriguing, they may be unable to maintain focus for the necessary amount of time to complete a task.
- Obligation to complete repeated behaviors – Schedules may derail when kids feel the need to complete rituals before moving on to another task. They may also be ostracized by peers who find their behaviors uncomfortable or upsetting.
OCD behaviors in children may also affect others who are in the same environment as the child, including other students, teachers, parents, friends, and siblings. Screening for the disorder early allows doctors and psychiatric professionals to create more individualized and comprehensive OCD treatment for children.
Screening for OCD in Children
Careful observation and understanding combined with the power of established screening tools can help identify the presence of obsessive-compulsive disorder. The following tools are currently in use:
- The Children's Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (CY-BOCS)
- Obsessive Compulsive Inventory-Child Version (OCI-CV)
- Children's Florida Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory (C-FOCI)
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| The presence of tell-tale symptoms like unusual washing habits can help medical professionals diagnose OCD in children. Source: cdc.gov |
Self-exams such as the Short Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder Screener (SOCS) can help diagnose OCD faster in children. Children rate the presence of symptoms on a 0-2 scale, observing items such as washing habits and obsession with exactness as well as how the disease affects daily life.
Symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder include:
- Mood changes – anxiety, panic, guilt, and apprehension
- Psychological issues – depression, repetitive thought, deep fear
- Behavior problems – compulsiveness, agitation, irritability, ritualistic behavior, social isolation, extreme vigilance
If parents or teachers notice these OCD symptoms in children, it may help to address them with kids to see if they are aware. Bring symptoms to the attention of a physician so screening for the disease can begin as early as possible. Personalized treatment is the most effective strategy when the signs of OCD in children are recognized early.
