An examination of intrusion-related shame in obsessive-compulsive disorder

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder characterised by unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and compulsions. The present thesis is that individuals may attempt to avoid, conceal, suppress, or neutralise intrusions not only to regulate aversive emotions such as anxiety and disgust, but to regulate shame. This dissertation addressed three primary questions. First, do individuals with OCD feel more shame than nonclinical populations when intrusions arise? Second, are individuals more likely to respond to frequent intrusions by performing compulsions if they feel shame? Third, is relief from shame associated with reduction in compulsions across the course of treatment?