Anxiety behavior in young children: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) 101

It is considered normal for young children to worry about all sorts of things, and to express their fears quite openly. This may come in the form of fear of insects and big animals, all the way to being afraid of dentists and hospital visits. It’s all part of the growing up process, so there’s nothing to be concerned of for the most part. However, if it comes to a point where young children can’t stop themselves from excessively worrying over certain matters, then it’s most likely a signal that something is wrong. This anxiety disorder is commonly referred to as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or simply OCD. If young children have it, they are constrained to act in a certain manner in an effort to remedy whatever they find fearful or worrisome. Below is a quick overview of OCD, and what you can do to help your child:

What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

It is important to reiterate that OCD in young children – or in anyone for that matter – is a behavioral disorder. This means that they can’t help it, so it would be futile for parents of young children to become unnerved or irritated over something that is regarded as a medical condition. This may cause the kids even more stress, making the problem worsen. So what exactly is OCD? It is defined as an anxiety behavior wherein young children get mentally caught up over something that is dirty, harmful, or wrong. Kids with OCD usually feel the need to fix things that are not in order or misplaced, and have the urgency to find mundane items, even making a habit of collecting them.

Most common OCD behaviors

Parents of young children should keenly watch their kids for signs of repeated behavior that might be indicative of OCD. Young children with OCD are usually obsessed with the fear of being contaminated or acquiring germs; getting everything in order; or lucky and unlucky numbers – just to name a few. Therefore, you would see constant behavioral patterns in these young children: taking a bath and teeth brushing several times a day; or walking and moving about in certain ways, for instance.

So how do you help your kid cope if he has this behavioral problem? Doctors treat young children who have OCD with therapy and medication. This kind of treatment is popularly known as behavioral therapy, wherein patients are consistently trained to gradually change their thoughts by first altering their behavior. Over time, a child with OCD will slowly lessen the urge to behave obsessively. Nevertheless, as a parent you should always make your presence known to your little darling anyway.