Obsessive-compulsive disorder treatment under the light of new cognitive perspectives. A case study

Response prevention exposure (RPE) has been considered the treatment of choice for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Its efficacy has been called into question given the clinical and empirical data showing that a great number of patients do not benefit from such treatment (Salkovskis, 1989, Salkovskis & westbrook ,1989). In the present paper, given the most recent cognitive appproaches, we have chosen an integrative model that highlights emotional and cognitive variables. Practical applications can be deriven from Eysenck s Four Factor Theory (1997) in regards to cognitive treatment for OCD; special importance is given to the role played by attentional and interpretive biases for intrusive thoughts. Eliminating these biases constitutes a number one priority. Based on these theoretical models, a case study presented, the application of cognitive-behavioural treatment (CBT) is described; the cognitive techniques used and the results obtained are discussed.