[Long-term course of childhood or adolescence onset obsessive-compulsive disorder: psychosocial adaptation in adulthood].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to investigate the long-term course of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) with onset in childhood or adolescence. This presentation focuses on the social adjustment of the former patients in adulthood.

METHODS

Fifty-five out of 116 patients with childhood OCD classified according to DSM-IV criteria were interviewed personally using structured interviews. Mean age at onset of OCD was 12.5 years, and mean follow-up time was 11.2 years.

RESULTS

Despite the evident burden of mental disorder at the time of the follow-up, 76% led their own lives without being overly dependent upon their parents. 84% had no problems that impaired either school or their occupation. 73% were rated as maintaining satisfying social contacts, but only 54% were in a relationship at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

In agreement with other studies we found an association between the level of psychosocial adjustment and the course of obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Summing up, social adjustment and psychosexual functioning seem to be more impaired than occupational functioning. The relatively good adjustment of our sample indicates that most patients have found a way of managing their lives, albeit still suffering from mental disorders.