Scrupulosity OCD and How It Can Affect Our Clients’ Relationship with God

Authors

Annabella Hagen, Mindset Family TherapyFollow

Keywords

scrupulosity OCD, religiosity, OCD, religious anxiety, religious considerations, barriers to care, evidence-based treatment

Abstract

This article explores various aspects of scrupulosity OCD, starting with the misconceptions about OCD that persist in society and their impact on treatment, along with a discussion of the disorder’s prevalence. It examines common OCD themes, provides a deeper understanding of religious scrupulosity, and clarifies how individuals become trapped in the scrupulosity OCD cycle. Specific triggers within the LDS Church are highlighted, alongside religious considerations such as distinguishing scrupulosity from genuine religiosity and discerning between spiritual promptings and OCD-driven thoughts. The article also addresses barriers to care unique to the LDS community and offers clinician recommendations, including an overview of evidence-based therapeutic approaches for treating OCD, including scrupulosity OCD.

Recommended Citation

Hagen, Annabella (2025) "Scrupulosity OCD and How It Can Affect Our Clients’ Relationship with God," Issues in Religion and Psychotherapy: Vol. 42: No. 1, Article 7.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/irp/vol42/iss1/7