Expressed emotion in families and the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) often has burdensome and debilitating effects on families. Family responses range from support and empathy to excessive accommodation and overinvolvement to hostility and rejection. Assessment of individual family members' responses in these arenas help determine psychoeducational content for family members and whether relatives should participate in behavioral treatment sessions and homework assignments. Research evidence indicates that families may be helpful in assisting with treatment, especially in a multifamily behavioral treatment (MFBT) format. Strategies for addressing problematic family behaviors and attitudes are illustrated with case examples. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.