Scrupulosity OCD

What is Scrupulosity OCD?

One subtype of OCD is known as Scrupulosity OCD, which involves religious or moral obsessions and compulsions. People with Scrupulosity OCD experience intrusive and distressing thoughts, feelings, images, and/or doubts about their faith and moral values. They often feel the need to perform rituals or avoid certain behaviors to prevent feeling as though they have sinned or done something wrong. 

Symptoms of Scrupulosity OCD

The symptoms of Scrupulosity OCD can vary from person to person, but some common ones include:

• Intense and distressing thoughts, beliefs, and doubts about faith and moral values

• A preoccupation with religious or moral perfection

• Fear of committing sins or wrongdoing

• Constantly seeking reassurance from religious figures or authorities

• Excessive praying, confessing, or other religious rituals

• Avoidance of certain behaviors or situations perceived as sinful or wrong

• Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness

It is important to note that being religious or holding religious beliefs is not related to whether or not someone develops OCD. I have treated folks for Scrupulosity OCD who hold religion as a central part of their identity, as well as fervent atheists. Regardless of one’s actual beliefs about religion and morality, one can still experience scrupulosity OCD.

Treatment for Scrupulosity OCD

Fortunately, like all other forms of OCD, Scrupulosity OCD can be effectively treated. Through learning how to tolerate uncertainty and identify and commit to one’s best rational guess, one can reduce the impact of their intrusive thoughts and free themselves from their OCD. At our practice, we provide gold standard OCD treatment to help you get the results you are looking for. For more information on how treatment for OCD works, click here. If you are interested in receiving treatment for Scrupulosity OCD, contact us here.