There are a variety of different types of obsessions and compulsions. The nature of intensity of these symptoms may vary over time. Aggressive, sexual and religious obsessions sometimes occur together in the same individual. Differentiating Scrupulosity from Devout Religious Faith and Practice Because these obsessions and compulsions are intertwined in the individual s religious life, it may be difficult for him or her to recognize that he or she has a psychiatric condition. An individual with religious obsessions often may focus excessively on one particular concern about sin while neglecting other aspects of his or her religion.
Most religions place a high priority on compassion and being a good neighbor.
The scrupulous individual while focusing excessively on a few specific rules may neglect this more general dictum. Religious leaders within the Roman Catholic and Jewish community have addressed these issues. Commentators in both of these groups have writings that label scrupulosity as a sin. In his book, The Doubting Disease , JW Ciarrocchi reviews Roman Catholic pastoral writings over past centuries. Treatment of Scrupulosity Like other forms of OCD, scrupulosity responds to medication and cognitive-behavioral therapy.