False Memory OCD

OCD Subtype

What is False Memory OCD?

False memory OCD is a subtype of OCD where the individual experiences intrusive thoughts making them doubt a past event. These fears typically surround doubts they did something wrong. The fears feel very real, and the OCD sufferer feels compelled to participate in compulsions in search of relief. Individuals with this subtype perform compulsions to gain certainty around the memory. People experience guilt and shame around these memories because most of the time the fears surround topics such as stealing or harm to others.

False Memory OCD

Common Obsessions

Fear of having done something immoral
Fear of harming another physically or mentally
Fear of sexually assaulting someone
Fear of being responsible for something terrible happening
Fear of not remembering an event accurately
Fear of forgetting an event
Fear of stealing

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False Memory OCD

Common Compulsions

Mentally reviewing the past
Mentally reviewing a specific experience trying to gain clarity to exactly what occurred
Asking others details about the experience
Reassuring themselves they are not capable of doing what they fear
Using rational and logic to try and convince themselves they did not harm someone
Asking others for reassurance they are not capable of these actions
Going back to place or a person and looking for more evidence of the memory
Confessing thoughts to others
Creating an alternative memory that feels safer