OCD in School Settings

Succeeding at school can be a challenge for children with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In addition to experiencing distress associated with their symptoms, students with OCD often have difficulty meeting academic demands, experience high rates of tardiness and absenteeism, and struggle with social interactions. This chapter highlights some of the key challenges of children with OCD face in school settings and provides a practical guide for clinicians and parents to navigate the school system effectively. It also provides information related to special education and disability law as well as ways for school personnel to support children with OCD in educational settings. An additional goal of this chapter is to provide information to help clinical and school personnel to collaborate effectively and provide children with the appropriate accommodations, modifications, and interventions in school settings.