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Is OCD A Neurodivergent Condition?

The term "neurodivergent" is a social science term used to describe and celebrate differences in neurological processes between people. OCD is a condition in which people have obsessive thoughts and compulsions that aim to resist these thoughts. So is OCD considered neurodivergent? Read on to find out.

Klara Hatinova

Author - Klara Hatinova

Klara is a postgraduate researcher in experimental psychology at the University of Oxford.

Klara used MediSearch to find sources for this blog.
MediSearch gives instant answers to medical questions based on 30 million scientific articles.

What does it mean to be Neurodivergent?

The term "neurodivergent" was coined in the 1990s to describe differences in neurological functions from the majority, emphasising the strengths and abilities that this difference brings. Neurodivergence celebrates the differences and emphasises their importance in human neurological function. Neurodivergence was initially linked to autism but now encompasses ADHD, learning disabilities or people with Tourette's syndrome [1].

So, the three principles of the neurodivergent approach are [2]:

  • Everyone is different
  • Being neurodivergent does not imply being better or worse
  • Neurodiversity is something to be accommodated and embraced

Therefore, neurodivergent individuals view their condition as an inseparable component of their identity and personality, which they wish to celebrate and live with [2].

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What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common mental health disorder characterised by obsessive thoughts and compulsions to carry out behaviours [3]. OCD has a lifetime prevalence of 2%-3%, where up to 90% of individuals with OCD also have a co-existing psychiatric condition [4].

Is OCD Neurodivergent?

OCD is indeed a form of neurodivergence, as individuals with OCD have different neurological processes compared to the neurotypical population. These neurodivergent neurological processes include obsessive thoughts and urges to carry out compulsive behaviour.

OCD is also frequently linked with neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and Asperger's syndrome, which are considered neurodivergent [5, 6].

On the other hand, some experts argue against the inclusion of OCD in the neurodivergent spectrum. This is because OCD can cause distress and interfere with an individual's daily functioning, where individuals view the condition as distinct from their own identity.

To summarize, OCD can but does not necessarily need to be, neurodivergent. This largely depends on how the individual identifies with their condition. It is important to remember that neurodivergence is not a medical term and will, therefore, not impact your medical treatment and diagnosis.

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