Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in 5yo - help

[NorksBride]

My friend is at her wits end. Her DD aged 5 has always been very particular about how her bags are packed, will constantly dress and undress in the morning and has to do everything in a strict routine. It is now getting out of hand - everyone in the household has to kiss her goodbye on the exact same spot on her cheek or she throws a major tantrum. She was so cross this morning because her 'daddy didn't get it right', that she tried to get out of the car whilst it was moving.

I've never come across this in a child and have absolutely no advice for her, other than perhaps to discuss with her GP. But if anyone has handled this behaviour I'd be very grateful for their advice.

Thanks, NB.

Norksbride - It may help you to post this in Special needs as well, lots of really knowledgeble and helpful people there.

Thanks all.

mildmannered - we think it's gone beyond a phase as she's been like this for 3 years - almost her entire sentient life.

psychobab - am off to google

ds1 has ocd- more of a problem than his autism at times. We've worked on limiting it, so we control it for him (which can lead to screaming, but he can't control it himself). We use lots of "last time then finished" to warn him that he needs to stop a ritual. We count down for finishing as well. He can usually reign it in then. Worse when he's anxious, or eaten something he shouldn;t have.

There are medications that can be used, risperidrone iirc- very small doses (much smaller than the normal dose). We haven't gone down that route yet.

Counting down seems like an excellent approach. I'm going to advise friend to speak to GP. I've been reading through OCD in children on the net and although the DD isn't ticking every box, she's ticking enough for me to be concerned.