Differences Between Obsessive Behavior in Autism and OCD — Dr. C's Morning Minute 165
Obsessive or repetitive behavior appears in both autism and OCD, but the underlying mechanisms, and therefore the appropriate treatment, are quite different. In autism, restricted and repetitive behaviors are typically experienced as pleasurable or self-regulating; they are intrinsic to the individual's way of interacting with the world. In OCD, obsessions and compulsions are ego-dystonic, the person experiences them as unwanted and distressing, and performs compulsions to reduce anxiety. Getting this distinction right is clinically critical: standard OCD treatment protocols don't translate directly to autism, and misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective or counterproductive interventions. Autism Centers of Pittsburgh provides differential diagnosis expertise for complex presentations. Contact us to discuss your child's specific concerns.