Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Prisoners: Causes, Prevention, and Strategies for Post-prison Support
摘要
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic, disabling, and functionally impairing condition. It is characterized by repeated intrusive thoughts, obsessions, and behaviors to assuage the distress caused by the thoughts and compulsions. While being highly distressing and ego-dystonic, obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with significant comorbidities and functional impairment. The stress of the carceral environment, along with multiple triggers, can contribute to the overall worsening of the condition. This chapter talks about obsessive-compulsive disorder in prisoners with emphasis on the causes, its prevention, and strategies for post-prison support. Management involves training corrections staff toward timely identification of individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Finally, it is noteworthy to consider the fact that very little empirical and data-driven research exists concerning obsessive-compulsive disorder and the incarcerated population. Therefore, research focusing on diagnosing and managing obsessive-compulsive disorder in the carceral setting is most beneficial.