OCD in Children and Adolescents: Hidden Symptoms and the Parent's Role in Treatment

MEDICENTER TV / ANTALYA, TURKEY — DEC. 14, 2025

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is not exclusive to adults; it frequently begins in childhood or adolescence. However, diagnosis in this demographic is often delayed because children may hide their rituals out of shame or fear of being misunderstood.

Expert Clinical Psychologist Hulusi Sarıkadıoğlu emphasizes that children often experience these obsessions internally, making them invisible to the outside world. He advises parents to prioritize communication and education over strict rule-enforcement when addressing behavioral changes.

Recognizing the Signs

Unlike adults, children may not recognize that their obsessive thoughts are excessive or meaningless. Symptoms often appear gradually and can include:

• Behavioral Changes: Frequent hand washing, avoiding "contaminated" objects like door handles, repeating prayers, or seeking constant reassurance from parents.

• Academic Impact: A decline in school performance due to difficulty concentrating.

• Personality Traits: OCD in adolescents is often linked to high responsibility, perfectionism, and a disproportionate concern with morality, religion, or social values.

The Genetic Link and Triggers

Genetics play a significant role in the onset of OCD. Studies show an 85% concordance rate in identical twins, and children with a family history of OCD are 5-10 times more likely to develop the disorder. Environmental stressors such as exam anxiety, bullying, or the loss of a loved one can trigger symptoms in genetically predisposed adolescents.

The "Reassurance Trap" for Parents

When a child is anxious, a parent's natural instinct is to provide comfort and safety. However, experts warn that in the context of OCD, protecting the child from their fears or constantly providing reassurance can actually harm them.

The gold standard for treatment is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). This involves creating a "fear hierarchy" where the child gradually faces their triggers—such as touching a "dirty" towel—without performing their usual compulsion (washing hands). Parents are encouraged to stop participating in rituals and to support their children in facing anxiety rather than avoiding it.

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Source : https://hulusisarikadioglu.com/