Courage, self-compassion, and values in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

• A negative relationship was found between OCD severity and self-compassion.
• A negative relationship was found between OCD severity and courage.
• A negative relationship was found between OCD severity and the VLQ.
• Overall values and courage were significant predictors of OCD severity.

New interventions such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) have shown early promise in the treatment of OCD, focusing on aspects of psychological flexibility including valued living, mindfulness, and committed action. However, research is needed to explore the relationship between the various components of ACT and OCD. The present study sought to investigate the relationship between values (i.e., self-compassion, courage, and the Valued Living Questionnaire [VLQ; the extent to which one has values and is living out values in everyday life]) and OCD severity. Participants (N=115) who self-reported meeting criteria for OCD completed an online survey assessing levels of different values as well as ratings of importance and consistent living within these values. Analyses yielded significant relationships between OCD severity and self-compassion, courage, and the VLQ. A multiple regression analysis revealed the VLQ and courage to be significant predictors of OCD severity. Interpretation of the results and their implications is considered.