ABSTRACT

Adolescents face considerable changes and pressures that are among the most complex in the life cycle. These changes and pressures converse in ways that challenge the stability and mental health of many, but not all, adolescents. Obsessive compulsive behaviors become a less observable diagnosis, and are too often left untreated until they are severe which led to an anxiety disorder called "Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder". The symptoms of OCD are unwanted. intrusive and repetitive obsessions and compulsions, resulting in a negative impact on quality of life. Individuals often delay for many years before reporting their symptoms to any healthcare professional. This study aimed to assess adolescents with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder manifestations, as well as their coping mechanisms on the stress and anxiety that the condition presents. It gathered answers and possible solutions to the following problems: 1) What is the socio-demographic profile of the participants in terms of age and status in the family? 2) What are the symptoms manifested by the participants in relation to obsessive-compulsive disorders in terms of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors? 3) What problems are experienced by the participants when obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors occur? 4) How do participants cope when obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors occur? 5) What measures may be proposed to help the participants minimize the stress and anxiety brought about by their Obsessive-Compulsive Behaviors? This study used qualitative exploratory techniques to seek a deeper reality of the subject. The methods that were used by the researchers were interviewing, journalizing and categorizing. In order to facilitate and obtain an in-depth analysis, the data were examined using a thematic framework. This framework sorted out and organized the data gathered according to concepts, themes and categories.