Cognitive-behavioral treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder: A case of prolonged tooth brushing.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children and adolescents is a prevalent condition with a number of adverse correlates and implications. The cognitive-behavioral treatment of an 11-year-old girl with prolonged tooth brushing is described in this case study. The frequency of the compulsive behavior was measured over the course of the treatment and standard assessment devices were used to determine the nature and severity of the OCD symptoms. Results of the intervention were suggestive of substantial improvements in OCD symptoms and a reduction in the associated impairments. The implications of these data were reviewed and recommendations for clinicians who intend on treating OCD in children and adolescents were provided.