Cognitive Neuroscience of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Abstract

Cognitive neuroscientific research has the ability to yield important insights into the complex neurobiological processes underlying obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This article provides an updated review of neuroimaging studies in seven neurocognitive domains. Findings from the literature are discussed in the context of obsessive-compulsive phenomenology and treatment. Expanding our knowledge of the neural mechanisms involved in OCD could help optimize treatment outcomes and guide the development of novel interventions.

Keywords: Cognitive flexibility; Decision-making; Error monitoring; Goal-directed; Habit; Response inhibition; Reward; Threat conditioning.