Which clinical and demographic factors predict poor insight in individuals with obsessions and/or compulsions?

Abstract

This study examined clinical and demographic predictors of poor insight in individuals with obsessions and/or compulsions. It was hypothesized that a combination of factors would explain variance on two measures of insight. Ninety-four individuals with obsessive–compulsive symptoms participated in a cross-sectional questionnaire-based design, completing measures relating to obsessions and compulsions, depression and anxiety levels, and demographic and clinical information. Results revealed that although demographic factors did not predict poor insight, clinical and comorbid variables as an overall model did. More comorbidities and ordering compulsions independently predicted poor insight, particularly when accompanied by high anxiety and high severity of compulsions. These findings highlight four clinical factors that could act as indicators of poor insight for clinicians when assessing individuals for therapy, since insight itself is difficult to assess accurately. Limitations and implications for future research are discussed.