ArticleThe British journal of clinical psychology2025
Experiences of imagery in obsessive-compulsive disorder: An interpretative phenomenological analysis.
Article in The British journal of clinical psychology, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 1 paper.
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- Experiences of imagery in obsessive-compulsive disorder: An interpretative phenomenological analysis.The British journal of clinical psychology · 2025Article
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Abstract
introductionMental imagery is a defining criterion within current OCD diagnoses, and yet little has been written about how this is experienced. This study aimed to investigate how people with a diagnosis of OCD experience imagery, to better understand how this might contribute to the condition.
methodsThis research employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and used semi-structured interviews. An expert-by-experience was involved in the study design. Eight adults with an OCD diagnosis were purposively sampled from NHS mental health services and interviewed about their experience of imagery. Interviews were transcribed and analysed in accordance with IPA guidelines. A reflexive log and audit trail were maintained during the research process to enhance quality control and to support the analytical process.
resultsSix superordinate themes were found: Submersion in intense and multifaceted imagery; Overwhelming, uncontrollable imagery; Imagery is explosive and expansive; Imagery involves past memories and future fears; People respond to imagery as if it is real; Therapy shifts imagery.
conclusionsThis study highlights the intensity of OCD-related imagery experienced by people with OCD and the significance of this imagery in their everyday lives. All participants experienced imagery related to their OCD, demonstrating its importance in the phenomenology of the condition. Images relating to past experiences and images of future fears were identified. Clinicians should routinely seek to include imagery in assessment, formulation, and individual treatment plans for those with OCD.
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