Which of the following defense mechanisms are seen in obsessive compulsive disorder i) Reaction formation ii) Undoing iii) Dissociation iv) Isolation of affect
**Question:** Which of the following defense mechanisms are seen in obsessive compulsive disorder
i) Reaction formation
ii) Undoing
iii) Dissociation
iv) Isolation of affect
**Correct Answer: i) Reaction formation**
**Core Concept:** Defense mechanisms are psychological coping strategies employed by the unconscious mind to protect an individual from anxiety-provoking thoughts or emotions. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by recurrent and intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that the individual feels compelled to perform.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Reaction formation is a defense mechanism where an individual engages in behaviors that are the direct opposite of their unconscious thoughts or desires. This helps them to reduce anxiety or negative feelings associated with these thoughts or desires. In the context of OCD, an individual with obsessive thoughts may develop compulsive behaviors as a reaction to counteract these obsessions. This mechanism helps the individual to cope with anxiety and maintain a sense of control.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
**Option A (Undoing):** This defense mechanism involves engaging in a behavior that opposes the original behavior. In contrast to reaction formation, undoing is unrelated to the individual's unconscious thoughts or desires, making it less relevant to OCD.
**Option B (Dissociation):** Dissociation is a defense mechanism characterized by a split between conscious awareness and unconscious thoughts or emotions. It is not directly related to OCD, as OCD is primarily characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
**Option C (Isolation of affect):** Isolation of affect is a defense mechanism where an individual disconnects their emotional response to a situation or memory. This mechanism is not directly related to OCD, which is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
**Clinical Pearl:** Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a psychiatric condition that primarily involves obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. While defense mechanisms like reaction formation may be present in individuals with OCD as they cope with the anxiety and distress caused by obsessive thoughts, the specific defense mechanism being tested in this question is reaction formation.