Pinciotti CM, Smith Z, Singh S, Wetterneck CT, Williams MT. Call to Action: Recommendations for Justice-Based Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder With Sexual Orientation and Gender Themes.
Behav Ther 2022;
53:153-169. [PMID:
35227395 DOI:
10.1016/j.beth.2021.11.001]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Gender and sexual minorities are subjected to minority stress in the form of discrimination and violence that leads to vigilance; identity concealment and discomfort; and internalized homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. These experiences are related to increased susceptibility to mental health concerns in this population. Historically, the behavioral treatment of sexual orientation (SO) and gender-themed obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has inadvertently reinforced anti-lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) stigma and contributed to minority stress in clients, treatment providers, and society at large. We present updated recommendations for treatment of SO- and gender-themed OCD through a more equitable, justice-based lens, primarily through eliminating exposures that contribute to minority stress and replacing them with psychoeducation about LGBTQ+ identities, and exposures to neutral and positive stimuli, uncertainty, and core fears. We also present recommendations for equitable research on SO- and gender-themed OCD.
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