Harm OCD is a subtype of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses about harming oneself or others — even though the person has no desire to act on them. These thoughts are deeply distressing and go against the person’s values, which is what makes them so disturbing.
Key Characteristics of Harm OCD
- Intrusive thoughts: "What if I lose control and stab someone?" "What if I hurt my child?" "What if I push someone in front of a train?"
- Fear of acting on thoughts: Even though the person doesn’t want to cause harm, they fear they might.
- Compulsions to neutralize or prevent harm: These are behaviors or mental rituals done to reduce anxiety or “prove” they’re not dangerous.
- High levels of guilt and shame: Because these thoughts are ego-dystonic (meaning they go against the person's core values), they can lead to intense emotional pain.
Common Obsessions in Harm OCD
- Fear of hurting loved ones (e.g., partner, child, parent)
- Fear of accidentally or impulsively committing violence
- Fear of being a “bad” or evil person
- Fear of losing control and acting violently
- Fear of having violent urges or impulses
Common Compulsions
- Avoidance: Avoiding knives, driving, holding children, or being alone with others.
- Mental reviewing: Replaying past actions to “check” if something harmful occurred.
- Reassurance-seeking: Asking others, “Do you think I would ever hurt someone?”
- Checking behavior: Checking if someone is okay after being with them, or checking for signs of aggression in themselves.
- Self-punishment: Avoiding pleasurable activities because they feel undeserving.
Important Clarification:
People with Harm OCD do not want to harm anyone. In fact, they are often deeply empathetic and sensitive individuals. Their distress stems from the fact that these intrusive thoughts are completely out of line with who they are — and OCD fixates on this mismatch.