Special series Subtypes of obsessive-compulsive disorder: Introduction

An accumulating body of research suggests that obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a heterogeneous condition, yet there is not yet a consensus on how best to conceptualize subtypes or dimensions of the disorder. This special series considers theoretical and practical issues pertaining to OCD subtypes. New possibilities for conceptualizing differences among OCD patients are considered, and avenues for treating different presentations of obsessions and compulsions are discussed. Treatment programs continue to be refined and outcome studies continue to demonstrate that tailoring cognitive-behavioral treatment toward specific presentations of OCD (e.g., contamination fears, severe obsessions) represents the future of OCD treatment. The articles in this special series are intended to further efforts to consider ways of better understanding the heterogeneity of OCD.