A Review of Metacognition in the diagnosis and treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Abstract

Cognitive theories are more prominent among the theories that explain the etiology and maintenance of OCD as well as among those that offer treatment options. Metacognition is a concept included within the newer theories and models within the cognitive perspective. This is a review of literature with particular focus on the concept of metacognition in cognitive models of OCD, metacognitive measurement tools and metacognitive treatment options. Although there have been metacognitive elements within the cognitive theories for a long time, it is only recently that they have been given importance and considered as separate variables. Research suggests that metacognition plays a central role in the etiology and maintenance of OCD. There are multiple valid and reliable metacognitive tools that are available for diagnostic and treatment purposes. Metacognitive treatments offer promising results for patients with OCD. However, there is a need for more robust empirical evidence using large-scale and longitudinal studies to establish its role more concretely.