The Relationship Between Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Religious Faith: Clinical Characteristics and Implications for Treatment

This paper explores the relationship between religion and obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), with particular interest in religion’s possible influence in the development of OCD and its impact on treatment outcome. The paper begins with a review of theoretical and research literatures concerning religious involvement, research evidence linking religious involvement and physical and mental health, and theoretical linkages supporting both positive and negative religious effects on health. Following this, we provide a general overview and description of OCD and information concerning the prevalence and incidence of religiously based OCD. Next, extant research linking religion and OCD is presented. Information relevant to the clinical treatment of OCD with religious content is discussed. Finally, practice implications for clinicians and clergy are provided.