OCD is marked by obsessions or compulsions that are time-consuming, cause distress to the person experiencing them, or interfere with the person’s normal daily life. People with OCD may realize that their obsessions or compulsions are unreasonable, but they cannot refrain from them. Symptom severity may fluctuate over time. Treatments include medication and psychotherapy.

Common obsessions and compulsions include:

• fear of germs or dirt
• fear of having harmed someone
• fear of losing control
• washing
• checking, touching, counting, or arranging things

In school. Children with OCD will probably be more successful in a structured, calm classroom with clear expectations. Those who compulsively recheck answers may need extended time on tests. Those with a fear of germs may not want to be touched.

For further explanation:

• National Institute of Mental Health
• Obsessive-Compulsive Foundation’s OCD in Children
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Information for Parents and Educators from the National Association for School Psychologists