Managing OCD in Children and Families

Recognize early signs

Early detection of symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder can significantly contribute to more effective management of the disorder. Family members are encouraged to identify and respond to warning signs, which may include increased isolation, repetitive behaviors, excessive comfort-seeking, and significant changes in eating or sleeping habits (American Psychological Association, 2021). Recognizing that these are symptoms rather than personal traits can help address them constructively without increasing the child's stress or shame.

Change expectations and communication

Adjusting expectations during times of change and avoiding comparisons is essential to supporting a child with OCD. Stress, which can exacerbate OCD symptoms , often increases during transitions or when unrealistic standards are set ( Nardone and Portelli, 2013 ; American Psychological Association, 2021). Families should strive to establish supportive communication that avoids complex rationalizations, as these can increase the child's anxiety. It is most effective to reduce the child's distress by simplifying explanations and focusing on reassurance rather than logic.

Encourage independence and set boundaries

It is essential to promote a balance between support and independence, giving the child the space to manage their symptoms while ensuring they do not feel isolated. By setting clear and reasonable limits on OCD-related behaviors, while maintaining normal family routines as much as possible, the disorder can prevent the disorder from dominating family life (American Psychological Association, 2021). This includes being firm but also compassionate so that the child does not participate in rituals or compulsions, which reinforces their efforts to resist these behaviors.

The role of indirect therapy

Indirect therapy, a strategic intervention primarily involving family members, can be instrumental. This approach draws on family dynamics as a resource for change, reducing the child's feeling of being isolated and preventing the disorder from defining their identity (Nardone & Salvini, 2007; Gibson 2021 ). By focusing on changing parental behaviors and responses, indirect therapy aims to disrupt dysfunctional family patterns that perpetuate the child's symptoms.

Drawing up a family contract

A strategic approach such as the Family and Parental Agreement can align all members around common goals in managing OCD, reducing conflict and misunderstanding. This method helps set realistic expectations and responsibilities, which can be particularly effective when combined with professional advice (Nardone & Salvini, 2007). Clear communication and shared goals can greatly improve the home strategies

Conclusion

Managing a child's obsessive-compulsive disorder requires an approach involving the entire family. By recognizing symptoms early, adjusting expectations, maintaining clear communication, encouraging independence, and possibly using indirect therapy techniques, families can create a supportive environment that encourages healing. It is also essential to consult with healthcare professionals to tailor these strategies to the family's individual needs, so that each child receives the support needed to effectively manage their OCD.

Training in brief systemic and strategic therapy 

LACT offers several live certified web training courses with 50 international trainers:

• Generalist systemic training
• DU relationship clinic with the University of Paris 8
• Clinical Master of Giorgio Nardone LACT/CTS
• Systemic Coach Training

LACT, supporting you in your retraining journey

LACT training courses are particularly suited to retraining situations with 100% distance learning and follow-up towards professional installation. 

See testimonials from former students. 

I would like to consult the OCD Clinic 

Make an appointment