Predicting Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Dimensions from Obsessive Beliefs and Anxiety Sensitivity

Cognitive models propose that obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms are maintained by maladaptive (obsessive) beliefs that give rise to anxiety and compulsive urges. Previous research, however, has found inconsistent relationships between obsessive beliefs and OC symptoms, and authors have called for further research to elucidate these associations. In addition, minimal research has examined the relationship between domains of anxiety sensitivity (AS) and OC symptoms. Accordingly, the present study examined the associations among OC symptom dimensions, obsessive beliefs, and AS domains using the most up-to-date measures of these constructs. The study included 699 undergraduate student volunteers who completed the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale, Anxiety Sensitivity Index—3rd version, the Obsessive Beliefs Questionnaire, and the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale. Measures were aggregated from multiple web surveys. Regression analyses revealed that obsessive beliefs and anxiety sensitivity domains significantly predicted OC symptom dimensions above and beyond general distress, and that specific obsessive beliefs and anxiety sensitivity domains were uniquely associated with individual OC dimensions. The pattern of findings was generally consistent with what would be predicted from the cognitive model. Furthermore, the results provide preliminary evidence that such symptoms can be understood as unique dimensions of obsessions and compulsions with different cognitive and affective processes. Future studies should continue to examine these relationships in clinical OCD samples. The specific study findings as well as their implications for theory and for treatment programs, as tailored to address the heterogeneity of OCD, will be discussed.Bachelor of Art