OCD symptoms & trauma, the role of disgust & self-criticism
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigating the relationship between interpersonal trauma and obsessive compulsive symptoms: the role of disgust and self-criticism
IRAS ID
337220
Contact name
Mica Rivers
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Surrey
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 29 days
Research summary
This study aims to evaluate the relationship between re-experiencing symptoms of trauma, such as flashbacks or intrusive thoughts/memories, and symptoms of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder(OCD). It is proposed that the emotion of disgust may partially explain this relationship and self-criticism may intensify the emotion of disgust
This is a preliminary investigation, further research would be needed thereafter, however the long-term benefits of this study may be improved understanding of the maintaining factors of the conditions, which in turn could help to inform further research and treatment developments. An additional clinical aim is to improve engagement with OCD treatment and help build tolerance of the emotion of disgust, in the hope this will then increase effectiveness of treatment and minimise inappropriate onward referrals.
The population studied will be those who self-report that they have experienced an interpersonal trauma and also report that they experience OCD symptoms. Participants excluded if they are under 18 y/o, have a brain injury/dementia, are in acute phase of Schizophrenia or Bipolar Disorder, Delusional disorder, Alcohol/drug abuse in last 6 months (abuse/dependency) or they are receiving support from either the OCD/BDD Clinic or the Trauma Service but have had over 5 sessions.
Questionnaire data will be collected from participants using 7 questionnaires. These ask questions about symptoms of OCD, trauma symptoms, disgust and self criticism. These questionnaires may take around an hour to complete, some may complete them quicker. They will only be asked to complete these questionnaires once. Participants are encouraged to respond with their first instinctual response and not spend too much time on any individual question.
Participants will be recruited from two specialist NHS services (OCD/BDD Clinic or the Trauma Service).
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
24/SW/0012
Date of REC Opinion
19 Feb 2024
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion