Common Fears & OCD Subtypes
OCD subtypes can help people to find community with others who share similar experiences, and they can assist therapists in designing targeted treatment plans, but they don't tell the whole story. If you can't find your subtype, that doesn't mean you don't have OCD—everyone's experience is unique, and many people's OCD symptoms don't fit neatly into any specific theme.
Sexuality and Gender OCD
Sexual orientation OCD (SO-OCD) is a subtype of OCD that is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors around a person’s sexual orientation. It has been referred to as homosexual OCD (H-OCD); however, this term is increasingly discouraged due to its lack of sensitivity. People with SO-OCD experience intrusive thoughts and urges around denial of or confusion about their true sexual orientation. Someone with SO-OCD may experience fears around being perceived as having a certain sexual orientation, such as gay or straight. They might wonder if they have a sexual orientation other than the one they thought. They may fear they are in denial of their “true” sexual orientation. Or, they might fear that their sexual orientation could abruptly change (e.g., “turn” gay or straight) and what this change will mean for their life. (Will they have to leave their family? Will their relationship end when they discover they are not who they think they are?)
Although societal attitudes have shifted to being more open about sex, it still remains a topic surrounded by stigma, shame, and taboo. As a result, you
By Yusra Shah
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Perhaps one of the least talked about topics surrounding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is “unacceptable” or taboo thoughts. OCD involves repetitive,
By Stacy Quick, LPC
This is a guest post by Sarah Stanton, autistic/ADHD/OCD advocate and facilitator of the NOCD Autism and OCD support group for members in NOCD Therapy.
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
“I don’t even care if I’m gay or straight — I just want to know for sure.”
Questioning your sexual orientation is incredibly common, and it’s a thought anyone can have. You might be watching a movie with your significant other
Disclaimer: This article deals with SO-OCD (also referred to as Homosexual OCD or Sexual Orientation OCD) and touches on potentially sensitive issues
By Caryn Gill
Intrusive thoughts are, by nature, out of alignment with one’s values—but nevertheless, they can feel extremely worrying and shameful.
By Elle Warren
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
As a therapist, I’ve worked with many people who have this fear, and I’ve helped them uncover the reason behind it.
Unwanted erections are unavoidable. But for some, fear and worry about these normal occurrences can become extremely distressing.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Fear of an unplanned pregnancy, or spreading or contracting an STI, can become all-consuming and negatively impact people's lives in several ways.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
If you’re finding dreams and doubts distressing, you should know that a same-sex dream is very unlikely to be an true indicator of your sexuality.
By Melanie Dideriksen, LPC, CAADC
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
I’ve worked with plenty of patients who feel deep distress over doubts about their sexuality. Learn some of the reasons why, and what you can do about it.
We'll explain why intrusive thoughts and obsessions about sexually harming children do not reflect OCD sufferers' true desires or values.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Let’s explore the real nature of sexual dreams, and discuss how you can find relief in your waking and sleeping hours alike.
By Melanie Dideriksen, LPC, CAADC
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Discover why watching porn might be compulsive, how you can learn if your own behaviors are SO-OCD compulsions, and what you can do.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
As a therapist who treats OCD, I’ve learned that for some people, fears about masturbation can become overwhelming.
By Melanie Dideriksen, LPC, CAADC
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD