What is the relationship between fear of self, self‐ambivalence, and obsessive–compulsive symptomatology? A systematic literature review.

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is one of the most debilitating health conditions in the world. There has been a vast amount of research into factors that increase the likelihood of developing OCD, and there are several explanatory models. Current cognitive models of OCD can be split into appraisal‐based and self‐doubt models. To date, cognitive–behavioural therapy for OCD (grounded in appraisal‐based models) is the recommended treatment approach, and research into the importance of self‐doubt beliefs has been somewhat neglected. This paper therefore aims to consolidate current research, utilizing a systematic review approach, to establish the relationship between fear of self, self‐ambivalence, and obsessive–compulsive symptomatology. A systematic search was conducted based on inclusion criteria identified for this review. Papers were then individually appraised for quality and key data extracted from each paper. A total of 11 studies were included in the final sample. Fear of self and self‐ambivalence were both consistently found to be significant predictors of obsessive–compulsive symptomatology. In particular, research suggests that there is a strong link between self‐doubt beliefs and obsessions and obsessional beliefs related to OCD. Limitations of the review and suggestions for future research are made and applications to clinical practice discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]