CONTAMINATION IMAGE
CONTAMINATION

Fear of contamination is one of the more common obsessions and can result in the fear of touching surfaces, being touched by others, being coughed or sneezed upon, and wearing clothes that have come in contact with germs. Related compulsions include excessive and repeated handwashing, showering, bathing, and house cleaning. Individuals with contamination OCD frequently avoid people, public places, change clothes, and throw out any items they believe to be contaminated.
 
STEPS OF EXPOSURE EXERCISES
 
 
Paul R. Munford, Ph.D.
www.cbtmarin.com
 
  • Select a trigger - an obsession-compulsion combination for elimination
  • Practice exposure - bringing on the obsession in reality and imagination
  • Practice ritual prevention - refrain from doing compulsions and fear-blocking behaviors
  • Practice Acceptance - fully experience the triggered thoughts, images, impulses and the feelings they set off.

 

For more details click on link "How Brad Overcame Compulsive Checking"