Work

OCD or Psychosis? Yes: A Case Study of a Diagnostic Conundrum and the Caregiver Role

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, while distinct phenomena, have considerable overlap in their presentations which can present a challenge in their approach to diagnosis and treatment. The changes in the DSM-5 bring these challenges to light, in allowing OCD to be specified as having absent insight or delusional beliefs. This can be especially distressing for caregivers, who play a major role in treatment, especially among youth. We present a case of a 16-year-old male presenting to care in his first episode of psychosis with overlapping obsessive-compulsive features, later found to have OCD. We discuss diagnostic and treatment approaches for someone presenting with overlapping psychotic and obsessive-compulsive features and highlight the underrecognized, but indisputably important role of caregivers throughout the process.

Source: Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1177/13591045261417452

Authors: Kimberly Hsiung, Alan Gonzalez, Eboné Ingram

Institution: Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650