Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms and Its Association with Psychological Strain Among Chinese University Students

Read the full article See related articles

Listed in

This article is not in any list yet, why not save it to one of your lists.
Log in to save this article

Abstract

Objectives

Obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) are commonly seen in non-clinical populations but receive considerably less attention compared to obsessive-compulsive disorder and other mental health issues. This study examined the prevalence and characteristics of OCS and its relationship with psychological strain among Chinese college students.

Methods

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in April 2024 involving 3,322 participants; the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale and Coping Strain scale were administered.

Results

The prevalence of OCS was 6.5%, non-medical major students (OR, 1.471; 95%CI, 1.027-2.017) were at a higher prevalence risk than medical students. Participants with stronger OCS were statistically and positively associated with the higher severity of coping strain (OR, 5.115; 95%CI, 3.438-7.609; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

OCS and psychological strain may mutually contribute to the maintenance and/or reinforcement of each other among Chinese college students, suggesting a new interventional model that may help to promote mental health among this population.

Article activity feed