Common Fears & OCD Subtypes
OCD subtypes can help people to find community with others who share similar experiences, and they can assist therapists in designing targeted treatment plans, but they don't tell the whole story. If you can't find your subtype, that doesn't mean you don't have OCD—everyone's experience is unique, and many people's OCD symptoms don't fit neatly into any specific theme.
Sexuality and Gender OCD
Sexual orientation OCD (SO-OCD) is a subtype of OCD that is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors around a person’s sexual orientation. It has been referred to as homosexual OCD (H-OCD); however, this term is increasingly discouraged due to its lack of sensitivity. People with SO-OCD experience intrusive thoughts and urges around denial of or confusion about their true sexual orientation. Someone with SO-OCD may experience fears around being perceived as having a certain sexual orientation, such as gay or straight. They might wonder if they have a sexual orientation other than the one they thought. They may fear they are in denial of their “true” sexual orientation. Or, they might fear that their sexual orientation could abruptly change (e.g., “turn” gay or straight) and what this change will mean for their life. (Will they have to leave their family? Will their relationship end when they discover they are not who they think they are?)
I know how frustrating it can be to have persistent uncertainty, doubt, and confusion about your sexuality. Here's what you should know, from an expert.
By Elle Warren
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Fantasies are safe ways to explore your sexuality, but OCD has a way of twisting your thoughts in ways that are untrue and harmful.
By Jessica Migala
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
These disturbing thoughts can become completely overwhelming. You're not alone, and you don't have to live in fear of your own thoughts.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Incest OCD involves intrusive and unwanted sexual thoughts, images, or urges about family members that cause distress or anxiety, as well as compulsions to manage or eliminate this anxiety.
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Sexual fantasies do not necessarily indicate something you want to happen in real life—but some may be especially distressing. Here's what you can do.
By Elle Warren
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Feeling anxious about an unwanted kink or fetish? Discover effective steps and expert guidance to address your concerns and find peace of mind.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
It's crucial to emphasize that fantasy remains distinct from action, or even from other kinds of desire.
Intrusive thoughts are, by nature, out of alignment with one’s values—but nevertheless, they can feel extremely worrying and shameful.
By Elle Warren
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
As a therapist, I’ve worked with many people who have this fear, and I’ve helped them uncover the reason behind it.
Unwanted erections are unavoidable. But for some, fear and worry about these normal occurrences can become extremely distressing.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC