Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder in Children

Children and adolescents with obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) have obsessive thoughts that are intrusive and unwanted. To relieve the anxiety associated with these thoughts, they perform repetitive actions, rituals, or routines, also known as compulsions. Examples of compulsions include washing, counting, organizing, or reading a passage of text over and over.

For children with OCD, these thoughts and behaviors significantly interfere with daily functioning and can cause distress and embarrassment.

VIDEO: The Child Study Center team finds solutions for children and families who are coping with emotional or behavioral challenges.

Specialists at the Child Study Center, part of Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, can help. Our team of child and adolescent psychiatrists, psychologists, and social workers diagnoses OCD and creates a personalized treatment plan to meet your child’s needs.

Our specialists also treat adults with OCD and related anxiety disorders.

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