What is the relationship between fear of self, self ambivalence and obsessive compulsive symptomatology? A systematic literature review

Abstract

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is one of the most debilitating health conditions in the world. There has been a vast amount of research into factors that increase the likelihood of developing OCD and there are several explanatory models. Current cognitive models of OCD can be split into appraisal-based and self-doubt models. To date, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for OCD (grounded in appraisal-based models) is the recommended treatment approach, and research into the importance of self-doubt beliefs has been somewhat neglected. This paper therefore aims to consolidate current research, utilising a systematic review approach, to establish the relationship between fear of self, self-ambivalence and obsessive-compulsive symptomology. A systematic search was conducted based on inclusion criteria identified for this review. Papers were then individually appraised for quality and key data extracted from each paper. A total of 11 studies were included in the final sample. Fear of self and self-ambivalence were both consistently found to be significant predictors of OC symptomatology. In particular, research suggests that there is a strong link between self-doubt beliefs and obsessions and obsessional beliefs related to OCD. Limitations of the review and suggestions for future research are made and applications to clinical practice discussed.

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ORCID for Hayward Godwin: orcid.org/0009-0005-1232-500X

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