Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
From 21st Century Medical Series
Written for teens in language teens can readily understand, “Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder” examines OCD’s symptoms and manifestations, how it can be controlled and treated, and, through case studies, what it is like to live with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The discussion begins with descriptions of eight teenagers who have obsessive-compulsive disorder and uses their experiences as a way of discussing thoughts and behaviors that could be symptoms. The text returns to these teens at intervals throughout the book, which personalizes the information in a helpful way. The book concludes with a glossary and lists of relevant organizations and Internet sites. With little else written specifically geared for young adults about OCD, which has risen to prominence recently in the popular media through such movies as “Matchstick Men,” “As Good As It Gets,” “The Aviator,” the TV show “Monk.” “Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder” is useful for those concerned with their own fears and anxieties and those of family and friends.
Order here: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – A Book for Teens
Overview of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Have you ever wondered if your hands were really clean enough, even after washing them? Have you ever questioned if you locked the door as you walked away from the house? Or maybe if you marked the wrong answer on a test? Or, have you ever had bad thoughts, like really scary, even disgusting and horrible thoughts, that just pop into your mind, thoughts that you don’t want to have? Most people have had these experiences, but they occur as minor, random thoughts or worries that are easily dispelled from their minds.
The young people described in this book have these types of thoughts and worries, but unlike others, they worry about them most of their waking hours. They have obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD, an anxiety disorder marked by persistent, intrusive, unwanted thoughts that intrude upon the mind, and compulsive behaviors — unneeded actions that one feels must be done over and over again in certain rigid and consistent ways.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder affects 2.5 percent of the population, most often developing in childhood, adolescence, or young adulthood. Researchers have found that one-third to one-half of OCD cases identified in adults began during childhood. About 1 percent of children have OCD; that is about 200,000 American children and teenagers. The good news is that there is now hope and help for people struggling with OCD.
Through a series of real-life case studies, readers of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder are introduced to obsessive-compulsive disorder — what OCD is, its symptoms, its treatments, and the impact OCD has on family and friends. The book also discusses how people with OCD live with the disorder.
This is a great resource for school projects, as well as for teens and adults who have OCD or know someone with OCD. Even adults will appreciate this easy to understand introduction to a sometimes-confusing disorder.
Grade Level: Grades 7 and up
Awards for “Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder”
“Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder,” was awarded as one of the 2004 Outstanding Science Trade Books by the Children’s Book Council and National Science Teachers Association committee. It was also designated as a “Selector’s Choice” a special commendation awarded by the panel of reviewers for the award. In addition, it was chosen by the New York Public Library to be included in it’s annual 2004 Books for the Teen Age.