Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a relatively common psychological problem. The symptoms - which can be seriously disabling in extreme cases - can include excessive hand-washing or other cleaning rituals, repeated checking, extreme slowness and unwanted, repugnant intrusive thoughts.

This book covers the nature, symptoms, causes and theories of OCD. It discusses the treatments that are available and provides valuable practical advice to those who may need help. Numerous case histories are given throughout the book, highlighting various aspects of the disorder and its treatment. There are in-depth sections on scrupulosity, culture and OCD, mental pollution, OCD in children and on the similarities and differences between childhood OCD and autistic disorder.

This fourth edition has been updated with succinct explanations of recent research, information on treatment advances and the recent expansion of treatment services for anxiety disorders, including OCD, in the NHS.

In this updated fourth edition, Stanley Rachman gives a clear account of the nature of obsessive-compulsive problems which will prove useful for sufferers and their families, as well as general readers interested in finding out about the disorder.

Stanley Rachman's profile page

Padmal de Silva's profile page

Stanley Rachman is Professor in the Psychology Department at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada. Padmal de Silva is Former Senior Lecturer in Psychology at the Institute of Psychiatry at King's College, University of London and Consultant Clinical Psychologist at South London and Maudsley National Health Service Trust in London, UK.

"Very well written, it is easy to read, with no baffling medical jargon."

--No Panic Website

Reviews from previous edition:

"Clear and accessible language [and] practical advice... Strengths of the book include the frequent use of clinical examples and case material. This feature makes the book a useful primer on the condition for undergraduate and graduate psychology students, quickly giving them the clinical flavour of the condition... a fascinating read for the general public... the book is beautifully written in a concise, simple (yet extremely accurate) style... this is the best short work for the general public, on any psychiatric disorder [and] it will prove invaluable for sufferers of OCD, their families and their clinicians."

--Behaviour and Research Therapy

"The book is intended as an information source for patients who have OCD and their families and friends, but it would also be very useful for workers in health care who need to have an overview of this disorder but are not directly involved in assessment and treatment. It would also be useful for family practitioners as a quick read... an excellent description of obsessions and compulsions with great attention to detail... extremely helpful for a patient and family when first engaging in cognitive behavioural therapy... well written, well organized, and easy to read."

--Journal of Psychiatry and Neuroscience

"This book is easily accessible to the general public with is easy-to-read style and well structured chapters. Given that the overall tone is one of hope for individuals with OCD, the book offers an invaluable resource to patients, their families and service providers."

--The Psychologist