Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Theory, Research, and Treatment.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Theory, Research, and Treatment Swinson RP, Antony MM, Rachman S, Richter MA, eds. New York, NY 10012, The Guilford Press, 1998, hardcover, 478 pp, $50.

Edited by 2 psychiatrists and 2 psychologists and written by 41 contributors, this text contains a comprehensive discussion of obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD). It is directed toward clinicians who treat patients with mental and emotional disorders.

The first section contains 9 chapters covering the theory of and research on OCD from psychological and biological perspectives. This section includes discussions of the characteristics and prevalence of OCD, its differentiation from other anxiety-based disorders, cognitive-behavioral theory, personality factors, family interactions, related serotonin abnormalities, neuroimaging, and genetic influences.

In the second section, 7 chapters deal with the assessment and treatment of OCD. In the assessment portion, the reliability, validity, and procedural problems of (1) structured clinical interviews, (2) self-report measures, and (3) standardized scales are discussed. The treatments it reviews include exposure and response prevention, cognitive therapy, pharmacotherapy, and combination treatments. Of particular interest are 2 chapters presenting a life-span perspective, including OCD in children, adolescents, and elderly persons.

The final 2 chapters form part III and deal with obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. These chapters review related disorders, including body dysmorphic disorder, hypochondriasis, impulse control disorders, and Tourette syndrome. This section is important for physical therapists, particularly those in primary care settings in which these patients may be seen because of their physical symptoms or reports of symptoms. These chapters include screening questions, more detailed assessment tools, and illustrative case studies.

This book provides a detailed description of OCD and related disorders. Although it is directed toward clinicians in psychology and psychiatry, it would be of value to physical therapists working in psychiatric or primary care settings. The sections on family interaction, psychosocial treatment, and obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders would be of special interest. Detailed resource lists and case studies increase the value of the text as a reference for physical therapists.

Ann K Williams, PhD, PT The University of Montana Missoula, Mont

Dr Williams is Professor and Chair of the Physical Therapy Department. She teaches in the areas of research design, geriatrics, and psychosocial aspects of illness and disability.