Challenges in child and adolescent obsessive–compulsive disorder

Obsessive–compulsive disorder is a neurobiological disorder with a prevalence in children and adolescents of about 1%. It can initially be hidden by sufferers, but may cause distress, impact upon family life, social activities, and education, and become chronic and severe. Nonetheless it is very treatable, by means of both cognitive–behavioural therapy and medication. A developmental approach to both assessment and treatment should be undertaken in children and young people, and it is helpful to involve family members.