Prevailing theories indicate that obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neurological disease. Brain imaging studies suggest that OCD is associated with hyperactivity in certain regions. In addition, there is the hypothesis that an abnormal transmission of certain brain chemicals underlies OCD. Moreover, twin studies and family studies also strongly suggest that vulnerability to OCD can be inherited.
The MRC Unit on Anxiety and Stress Disorders at Tygerberg is continuing their research on OCD, covering clinical aspects which includes environmental variables like childhood trauma, as well as possible genetic underpinnings as well as brain structure and functioning.
Four 'types' of volunteers (right-handed and aged between 18 and 50 years) are needed for participation:
- Persons diagnosed with OCD;
- Persons diagnosed with hair-pulling disorder (trichotillomania);
- First-degree relatives of persons diagnosed with OCD.
- We also need healthy controls.
Participation involves attendance of 2 sessions, with the first session comprising of a screening interview, filling out of self-report questionnaires and taking a blood sample for genetic analysis. If suitable for brain imaging, participants are scanned during a subsequent session. At the time, participants also complete a number of neuropsychological tasks in the form of computerized games. All procedures are carefully explained, and all participants provide informed consent beforehand.
Participation is cost-free and participant information will be kept confidential.
If you want more information or want to participate, please contact: Prof Christine Lochner 021 938 9179, e-mail: cl2@sun.ac.za or Ms Elsie Breet 021 938 9654, e-mail: elsie@sun.ac.za for more information.
