Is OCD Genetic? Possible Causes & Risk Factors

What Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness characterized by obsessions, (unwanted intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (rigid and repetitive behaviors). Compulsions develop as someone attempts to rid themselves of or cope with the anxiety caused by obsessions.⁴ OCD is one of the most debilitating forms of mental illness, and often causes people extreme distress and impairment. The symptoms of OCD generally begin emerging in childhood or adolescence.^1,2,5

A person’s specific obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors can vary depending on the type of OCD they experience. For example, someone with contamination OCD may struggle with intrusive thoughts about germs and bacteria, resulting in compulsive hand-washing, disinfecting, or cleaning. Someone else might have relationship OCD and perform mental rituals to try to calm their obsessions about being in the wrong partnership. Without treatment, OCD symptoms can worsen to the point where the condition consumes the majority of a person’s time and energy.^4,6

Is OCD Genetic?

Studies indicate that having a close family member with OCD, such as a parent or sibling, more than doubles a person’s likelihood of developing the disorder.¹ Further results suggest this possibility may actually be much higher, showing that there can be a genetic component to developing OCD.^2,3 Additionally, research into molecular genetics has identified specific genes that may be involved in OCD. Still, this does not guarantee that a person will develop the condition just because another close family member has it.^5,7,8

Other Biological Risk Factors for Developing OCD

There are several other biological factors that increase the risk of developing OCD. There is some research suggesting edema, excessive weight gain, and complicated, prolonged labor during pregnancy may increase the risk of OCD in offspring. However, this thesis needs to be proven in future studies.⁸ Additionally, giving birth may trigger postpartum OCD.⁵

Additionally, some people may develop OCD after contracting certain illnesses, such as strep infection. Studies indicate that while infection doesn’t necessarily cause OCD, it can trigger the onset of OCD in children who are genetically predisposed.⁹

Certain personality traits may increase a person’s risk as well, such as high levels of perfectionism, conscientiousness, and neuroticism.⁹

Environmental Causes of OCD

It is theorized that genetic and biological predispositions for OCD can be “activated” by certain stressful events or circumstances. Some of these risk factors are common to many mental illnesses, while others are unique to OCD.

Environmental risk factors of OCD may include:^5,7,9

• Experiencing trauma in childhood
• Having an overprotective parent
• Heavy substance use in adolescence
• Experiencing many major life events and changes at once
• Being the victim of rape or sexual assault
• Separation anxiety in children and teens
• High levels of toxic stress
• Having another co-occurring mental health condition

The Impact of Environmental Factors on Developing OCD

“Genetic factors alone typically do not induce OCD, rather they interact with environmental factors to influence a person’s risk of OCD. We know this because if one identical twin has OCD, the co-twin does not have OCD 100% of the time – it is closer to 40%. In other words, simply having a genetic predisposition to OCD is usually not sufficient to induce OCD. For example, an individual may inherit a genetic predisposition to OCD but not develop the disorder until they have been exposed to one or more environmental factors, such as a stressful life event, particular infections, or childbirth. In this way, scientists believe genes and the environment interact in complex ways throughout development and adulthood.

Thankfully, some environmental “resilience” factors, such as active coping, cognitive flexibility, and social support, can act to decrease risk of some psychiatric disorders, and research is currently underway to determine what factors may decrease risk of OCD. In conclusion, DNA is generally not destiny in OCD – thankfully, there are other risk factors that may be modifiable.” – James J. Crowley, PhD, Associate Professor Departments of Genetics & Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Department of Clinical Neuroscience at Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden¹³

What Are the Chances of Passing OCD to My Child?

If you are diagnosed with OCD, it does not mean that your child will develop it themselves, even if they’re genetically predisposed. In some cases, it is possible to offset genetic risks with protective factors.^5,7 It’s important to remember that if your child does experience OCD, there are many effective treatments available. OCD symptoms can often be managed or even overcome with early treatment.^10,11

Treatment for OCD

While there is no cure for OCD, there are several effective treatments for OCD. Therapy is considered the frontline approach, but may sometimes be combined with medication. In therapy, people learn how to cope with obsessive thoughts without relying on compulsive behaviors. Breaking compulsive habits slows or halts the progression of OCD symptoms for many, and is an important aspect of managing the condition.¹⁰

Therapy for OCD

Certain types of therapy have proven  effective for individuals with OCD, including:^10,11

• Exposure and response prevention (ERP),
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for OCD
• Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)

OCD is commonly misdiagnosed, so it’s important to find the right therapist who specializes in treating the condition to obtain an accurate diagnosis.¹² Many people begin their search by using an online therapist directory that allows them to filter results based on location, insurance, and specific treatment needs.

Medication for OCD

In addition to therapy, some individuals with OCD also benefit from psychiatric medication. Antidepressants are generally the most common type of medication for OCD prescribed. However, benzodiazepines, antipsychotic medications, or anticonvulsant medications are sometimes recommended if antidepressants aren’t alleviating symptoms.¹⁰

Medications may help people with OCD reduce obsessive thoughts, anxiety, and urges to engage in compulsive behaviors. Because OCD often co-occurs with depression, anxiety, or other mental health conditions, prescriptions may be needed to help reduce symptoms of accompanying disorders as well.¹⁰

Final Thoughts

OCD is a mental health condition that is believed to be hereditary. A genetic predisposition can be compounded by certain environmental risk factors like trauma, high levels of stress, or substance use.^5,7,9 If you are struggling with OCD, seeking therapy is recommended as it can greatly reduce your symptoms and improve overall well-being.^10,11