Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) does not affect just grownups--it also impacts children. According to the experts at Kids Health, doctors are not certain what causes OCD--a condition in which non-stop worrying and unfounded fear ensues--but it is believed to result when serotonin levels in the brain become "blocked." This, in turn, may cause the brain to overreact to every day situations. It is estimated that 1 percent of children in the United States suffer from OCD.
Anxiety
Children with OCD experience an overreaction to typical situations, sending the brain's "alarm system" into overdrive rather than filtering out unrealistic concerns. Consequently, children with OCD incessantly focus on what is worrisome, turning thoughts into extreme fear and doubt.
Fear
Children and teens with OCD tend to be afraid of germs or contamination. They also may be afraid that sickness or harm will afflict loved ones or themselves. Consequently, as a preventative measure, they may overemphasize things like lucky and unlucky numbers.
Pressure
It is common for kids with OCD to feel "under pressure" and to believe there is not enough time to accomplish all the tasks that need to be completed. This tends to manifest itself in the form of poor concentration (due to obsession about rituals or concerns) and poor sleep, resulting in irritability.
Organization
Certain things need to be done in precise ways among those with OCD. There is commonly a great need for order and symmetry. Household items--and how they are organized--may become a source of great focus.
Repetition
Although in theory most children with OCD are aware repeating certain behaviors over and over again isn't "necessary," intense anxiety leads them to do so--if only to minimize the discomfort they feel.
Compulsions
Common behaviors that appear among children and teens with OCD include grooming rituals; repetitious rituals (such as the need to move a certain way or go in and out of a doorway several times); checking and double-checking things, like whether appliances are on or off; excessive cleaning; arranging objects; behaving in such a way that "prevents" harm from coming to oneself or others; and collecting things in hoarding fashion.
