Genetics and Neurotransmitters
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a condition that is characterized by pathognomic features, which are intrusive, persistent, unconscious impulses and thoughts which repeat themselves continuously. It occurs when there are variations in some genes that give instructions for proteins that transport serotonin (Strom et al., 2021). Differences in genes involved in the communication within the brain system are associated with this condition. Similarly, a family member suffering from another type of disorder like phobia increases the inheritance risk. Cortico-striatal–thalamic–cortical (CSTC) circuitry abnormalities can be associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Some of the common neurotransmitters of the obsessive compulsive disorder are serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate (Goodman et al., 2021). The imbalance of dopamine levels in the body creates feelings of anxiety, which intensifies this condition.
Neuroanatomical Changes and Therapy
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) causes abnormalities in the brain, which leads to the reduction of medial orbitofrontal, temporolimbic cortices, anterior cingulate, and tissue expansion in the striatum and thalamus. Damage to the orbitofrontal changes the body’s response to emotions, leading to poor decision-making and impulsivity. Complications to the anterior cingulate cortex lead to the association of some actions with emotions of sadness or fear. Cognitive behavior therapy is the most recommended as it changes the thinking patterns, norms, and behaviors that lead to anxiety (Vallée et al., 2021). This therapy is essential since it exposes the patient to some situations which trigger their emotions and, at the same time, they are controlled. Therefore, they develop self-defence mechanisms that make them adapt to the situations.
Current Theories of Causation and Cultural Factors
The hereditary and genetic factors in human beings cause OCD. The cognitive theory states that people experience good thoughts from time to time. However, patients with OCD misinterpret them, leading to negative consequences. Other theories include learned behaviours, neurobiological, pregnancy and environmental factors. Opinions in society about this disorder depict that culture does not influence the symptoms of this illness. However, norms of religion show more severe effects on patients.
References
Goodman, W., Storch, E., & Sheth, S. (2021). Harmonizing the neurobiology and treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. American Journal Of Psychiatry, 178(1), 17-29. Web.
Strom, N., Soda, T., Mathews, C., & Davis, L. (2021). A dimensional perspective on the genetics of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Translational Psychiatry, 11(1). Web.
Vallée, A., Vallée, J., & Lecarpentier, Y. (2021). Lithium: A potential therapeutic strategy in obsessive-compulsive disorder by targeting the canonical WNT/β pathway. Translational Psychiatry, 11(1). Web.