The use of computers in the assessment and treatment of obsessive–compulsive disorder

This article reviews the empirical literature related to the use of computer-administered, cognitive–behaviorally based assessment and treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). Such research has increased steadily over the years, and has shown that treatments such as BT STEPS are effective at both assessing for and treating OCD. More large-scale studies examining the utility of such programs are needed, but initial research shows moderate to large effect sizes for reduction of OCD symptoms and impairment in functioning. The article concludes with recommendations for future directions for both clinical work and research in this area, including expansion of such services to assist in gaining more knowledge of how effective such treatments are, expand the number of people who could benefit from receiving such services, and examining the use of computers in treatments for other anxiety disorders to suggest new ways to move forward with OCD treatment.