Research indicates that the symptoms of OCD:
Are similar to the symptoms of panic disorder
Are triggered by low levels of stress hormones
Are related to hyperactivity in the orbitofrontal cortex
Are reduced if people are asked to view photos of stimuli that trigger the symptoms
The Correct Answer is C
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a neuropsychiatric condition involving intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors linked to dysfunction in cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical circuits. Research shows hyperactivity in the orbitofrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and caudate nucleus, leading to heightened error detection and overestimation of threat. This hyperactivity drives compulsive rituals, reinforcing maladaptive neural pathways through repeated performance of compulsions.
Rationale for correct answers
3. The orbitofrontal cortex shows hypermetabolism in OCD, causing excessive concern with potential danger and intrusive checking or cleaning behaviors.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1. OCD differs from panic disorder; panic involves sudden autonomic surges, whereas OCD has persistent intrusive thoughts with ritualized responses.
2. Low stress hormone levels do not cause OCD; dysregulation involves serotonin and glutamate systems alongside abnormal cortical activity.
4. Viewing triggering stimuli without therapy usually worsens symptoms; reduction requires controlled exposure with response prevention, not passive viewing.
Take Home Points
- OCD involves hyperactivity in cortico-striatal circuits, especially the orbitofrontal cortex.
- Dysfunction leads to heightened threat perception and compulsive rituals.
- Neurotransmitter imbalances, particularly serotonin and glutamate, are implicated.
- Treatment often combines exposure and response prevention with pharmacotherapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Obsessive-compulsive disorderinvolves persistent obsessions and compulsions driven by anxiety, often reinforced through temporary relief after the ritual. Long-standing compulsions like repetitive hand washing may be linked to contamination fears or other intrusive thoughts. Identifying the underlying purposeof the compulsion allows for targeted interventions and supports the development of exposure and responseprevention strategies. Understanding triggers is essential for addressing both psychological distress and related physicalconsequences, such as skin damage.
Rationale for correct answers
1.Determining the underlying functionof the ritual helps guide individualized interventions and ensures therapy addresses the specific anxiety or intrusive thought driving the compulsion.
Rationale for incorrect answers
2.Immediate time restriction without assessment can heighten anxietyand provoke resistance, worsening the compulsive cycle before trust and readiness are established.
3.Symptom substitution ignores the underlying obsession, risking a shift to another compulsion without resolving the core anxiety.
4.Rigid activity scheduling may offer some distractionbut does not directly address the cause or meaning of the compulsive behavior.
Take Home Points
- Understanding the purpose of a compulsion is critical before modifying or restricting it.
- Abrupt limitation of rituals can worsen anxiety and hinder rapport.
- Substitution techniques may mask but not resolve the underlying obsession.
- Effective OCD management integrates assessment, gradual exposure, and anxiety regulation strategies.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Obsessive-compulsive disordercan significantly impair functioning, but with symptom reduction, gradual reintegration into normal roles is encouraged. Stressful events like job interviews may temporarily heighten anxietyas part of exposure to feared situations. Supportive interventions focus on validating the client’s experience, maintaining forward progress, and providing practicalcoping strategies. Encouraging adaptive problem-solving helps sustain recovery while avoiding reinforcement of avoidance behaviors.
Rationale for correct answers
4.Validates the emotional experienceand offers a concrete coping option, supporting both autonomy and progression toward the client’s vocational goal.
Rationale for incorrect answers
1.Pressuring exposure without acknowledging feelingscan increase resistance and diminish trust, risking relapse into avoidance patterns.
2.Suggesting the client is not readyreinforces avoidance and undermines progress made in symptom management.
3.Misinterpreting the anxiety as lack of motivationinvalidates the client's efforts and may damage therapeutic rapport.
Take Home Points
- Anxiety may spike temporarily during exposure to real-life challenges in OCD recovery.
- Validating feelings encourages trust and self-efficacy.
- Avoidance reinforcement can hinder functional reintegration.
- Supportive, practical solutions help bridge the gap between therapy and real-world functioning.
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