Should OCD leave the anxiety disorders in DSM-V? The case for obsessive compulsive-related disorders

Eric Hollander, Ashley Braun, Daphne Simeon

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

88 Scopus citations

Abstract

Recently in 2006, a group of experts in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive compulsive-related disorders (OCRDs) convened in Washington, DC, to review existing data on the relationships between these various disorders, and to suggest approaches to address the gaps in our knowledge, in preparation far the upcoming Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (Fifth Edition) (DSM-V). As a result of this meeting, the Research Planning Agenda for DSM-V: OCRD Work Group suggested removing OCD front the anxiety disorders, where it is currently found. This proposal is in accordance with the current International Classification of Mental Disorders (ICD-10) classification of OCD as a separate category from the anxiety disorders. Although the ICD-10 places both OCD and the anxiety disorders under the umbrella category of "neurotic, stress-related, and somatoform disorders," they are two separate categories, distinct from one another. As OCD and other putative OCRDs share aspects of phenomenology, comorbidity, neurotransmitter/peptide systems, neurocircuitry, familial and genetic factors, and treatment response, it was proposed to create a new category in DSM-V entitled OCRDs. Alternatively, the OCRDs might be conceptualized as a new category within the broader category of anxiety disorders. Future studies are needed to better define the relationships among these disorders, and to study boundary issues for this proposed category. There are both advantages and disadvantages in creating a new diagnostic category in DSM-V, and these are discussed in this article.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)317-329
Number of pages13
JournalDepression and Anxiety
Volume25
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Anxiety disorders
  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders
  • Obsessive compulsive disorder
  • Obsessive compulsive-related disorders

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Psychiatry and Mental health

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