NORMA eResearch @NCI Library

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: An Investigation into the Potential Factors that Influence Attitudes towards OCD

Fox, Robert (2016) Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: An Investigation into the Potential Factors that Influence Attitudes towards OCD. Undergraduate thesis, National College of Ireland.

[thumbnail of robertfox.pdf]
Preview
PDF - Submitted Version
Download (867kB) | Preview

Abstract

Previous research on the topic of attitudes towards mental illness has identified several important factors that may influence these attitudes. However, compared to disorders such as depression or schizophrenia, little is known about the factors that influence attitudes towards obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), specifically. The current study aimed to further strengthen the research conducted in this area, by examining attitudes towards OCD and the potential factors that may influence these attitudes. This quantitative study was predominately cross sectional, however there was a manipulation applied as participants were presented with either a biological or psychosocial explanation of OCD. The current sample (N = 253) was recruited from the general population of the Republic of Ireland. The model used within the current study explained 23% of the variance pertaining to attitudes towards OCD. Mental health knowledge, older age, compassion, being familiar with mental illness and being female significantly predicted more positive attitudes towards OCD; however there was no significant difference between participants living in either an urban or rural area; or between participants that were presented with either the biological or psychosocial explanation of OCD. These findings have important implications for the development of effective interventions to reduce negative attitudes towards OCD. These findings alongside other clinical implications are discussed.

Item Type: Thesis (Undergraduate)
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology
R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA790 Mental Health
Divisions: School of Business > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User: Timothy Lawless
Date Deposited: 20 Sep 2016 15:00
Last Modified: 20 Sep 2016 15:04
URI: https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/2210

Actions (login required)

View Item View Item