Am J Psychiatry 1981; 138:286-296
Copyright © 1981 by American Psychiatric Association
Obsessive-compulsive disorders: a review of the literature
L Salzman and FH Thaler
The authors reviewed the studies on obsessive-compulsive disorders
published from 1953 to 1978. They report on various theories of the
etiology of the disorders and provide an overview of the studies based on
these theories. The treatment modalities covered include behavioral
modification, drug therapy psychotherapy, surgery, and experimental
therapies. the authors conclude that, although the obsessive-compulsive
disorders are widely present, there is a paucity of new data concerning
their treatment. The evidence to date, however, suggests that psychotherapy
is an essential ingredient in the treatment process. They recommended that
further clinical studies be done to elucidate the etiology and treatment of
these disorders.
