Navigating recovery in childhood OCD: a qualitative analysis of barriers and facilitators

Objective: The objective is to examine barriers and facilitators to recovery in children and adolescents with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) using a qualitative approach.

Methods: Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings were validated through investigator triangulation, peer validation and member check.

Results: Barriers to recovery were internal-lack of awareness; poor motivation to seek treatment; and perceived stigma, or external-poor parental support; parental anxiety; inadequate awareness in schools; social misconceptions about illness; myths about medication; and frustrations in treatment processes. Facilitators were internal-will and determination; self-discipline; keeping calm; sense of purpose, and external-general awareness; parental support; peer support; and good therapeutic engagement.

Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to explore barriers and facilitators to recovery in-depth in pediatric OCD. Findings underscore the importance of tailored interventions, robust support networks, and cultural sensitivity for successful recovery outcomes.