Can children have OCD? - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

mommaboyz · 11-29-2004, 08:06 PM

I was wondering becouse a few years ago my doctor brought up to me he thought I did. I relized I do its not a problem for me I dont need meds ar anything like that. I like to count things like stairs ect. It doesnt run my life or anything its just someting I do.
My son is 2 Ive noticed he does little things Like certain things have to be in a certain place he puts them exactly. And our telephone has to be on the charge all the time or he will find it and put it away. It may be a normal kid thing but I was wondering could he be getting ocd this early? Is it even genitic?
thanks for the replys ahead of time.

jorjac · 11-29-2004, 09:18 PM

I don't know much about children and OCD, but I do know that it is genetic. I have a weird case of OCD...and my sister has the same thing. We're not young. I'm in my 60's and she is 58. We found out this past summer that we both suffer from the same type of OCD. Neither of us had metioned it to anyone before. So, the answer to one of your question is yes, it is genetic...and my sister said she had been bothered by OCD as a child, but never knew what it was. Good luck with your baby...

jorja

openseason · 11-30-2004, 07:48 AM

OCD is genetic but your 2 year old is too young to be obsessed with the thoughts that go with OCD. It usually does not start until 9, 10 years old. Most people never realize they have OCD, although it is something in the background causing them problems.

Pam326 · 11-30-2004, 07:29 PM

Yes-children can have ocd. My seven year old daughter was diagnosed this past year.

sjd1654 · 12-01-2004, 04:35 AM

I have OCD myself. Also, I have 3 children. I am constantly watching and worrying for any OCD symptoms. It does seem like around that age of 2 though, is when kids want some things orderly and can make the connection themselves to want something a certain way and do it. I think all 3 of mine went through a stage of wanting things a certain way, doing things just the way they wanted it done, etc. It sure made me worry, but that intensity they had at that age passed, and now I don't have those worries. I think it is probably just normal behavior. I would watch for other symptoms as they get older-like someone mentioned-- 9-10 years old. But, try not to worry too much about it now.