Experiences of imagery in obsessive-compulsive disorder: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Wedge, Hannah E. F., Waddington, Louise and Thompson, Andrew R. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6788-7222 2024. Experiences of imagery in obsessive-compulsive disorder: an interpretative phenomenological analysis. British Journal of Clinical Psychology 10.1111/bjc.12518

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Abstract

Introduction Mental imagery is a defining criterion within current OCD diagnoses, and yet little has been written about how this is experienced. This study aimed to investigate how people with a diagnosis of OCD experience imagery, to better understand how this might contribute to the condition. Methods This research employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and used semi-structured interviews. An expert-by-experience was involved in the study design. Eight adults with an OCD diagnosis were purposively sampled from NHS mental health services and interviewed about their experience of imagery. Interviews were transcribed and analysed in accordance with IPA guidelines. A reflexive log and audit trail were maintained during the research process to enhance quality control and to support the analytical process. Results Six superordinate themes were found: Submersion in intense and multifaceted imagery; Overwhelming, uncontrollable imagery; Imagery is explosive and expansive; Imagery involves past memories and future fears; People respond to imagery as if it is real; Therapy shifts imagery. Conclusions This study highlights the intensity of OCD-related imagery experienced by people with OCD and the significance of this imagery in their everyday lives. All participants experienced imagery related to their OCD, demonstrating its importance in the phenomenology of the condition. Images relating to past experiences and images of future fears were identified. Clinicians should routinely seek to include imagery in assessment, formulation, and individual treatment plans for those with OCD.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Published Online
Status:	In Press
Schools:	Psychology
Publisher:	Wiley
ISSN:	0144-6657
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	12 November 2024
Date of Acceptance:	4 November 2024
Last Modified:	05 Dec 2024 12:10
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/173905

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