Meaning of Unwanted Intrusions
While most people have unwanted intrusions, only some people develop OCD. This is because of differences in the meaning given to unwanted thoughts, images & urges.
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The meaning we give to our experience has an important role in how we feel, and what we want to do next.
Most people have unwanted intrusions and interpret them as meaningless, random, brain processes.
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This means that they are hardly noticed, or are not overly distressing.
There might be some emotional reaction but it does not overly impact on what the person decides to do next.
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Unwanted
Intrusion
Thought
Image
Urge
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Meaning
Emotions
Sensations
Urge to say something inappropriate
"lol, that would be weird to do that"
Embarrassed +
Amused +
In OCD, unwanted intrusions are interpreted to mean something “bad”.
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This leads to more intense and upsetting feelings.
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People naturally experience a strong urge to do something to alleviate this feeling, or prevent something bad from happening.
Most people interpret unwanted intrusions as meaningless, random, brain processes.
This means that they are hardly noticed, or are not overly distressing. They don't overly impact on what the person decides to do next.
Unwanted
Intrusion
Thought
Image
Urge
Meaning
Urge to say something inappropriate
"OMG! Is this something I could do? What is wrong with me?!"
Emotions
Sensations
Embarrassed +++
Anxious +++
Shame ++
Disgust +
Sweat+
High heart rate
Response
Behavioural
Mental
Avoid conversation
Ask if you offended someone
Mentally check over the conversation
Printable Handout
