Common obsessions are fears something bad will happen, or concerns with bodily wastes or secretions. Attempts to ignore, suppress, or neutralize thoughts or impulses with other thoughts or actions only increase anxiety, discomfort, and distress. Compulsions include repetitive intentional behaviors performed in response to obsessions, sometimes in a stereotyped fashion.
Common compulsions are hand-washing, continual checking of locks and lights, and touching.
In some cases, there appears to be a familial pattern, while in others the disorder occurs after a head injury. Some negative effects to medications. Treating any person with mental retardation and a psychiatric disorder is a comprehensive plan addressing rehabilitation and education. A multilevel approach is important because psychiatric problems may affect skills, placement, and family expectations. Programs can be modified to benefit the individual.