What is the expected outcome of ERP in OCD?

• A. Increased avoidance.
• B. Greater distress.
• C. Habituation and reduced distress and compulsions.
• D. Immediate elimination of all symptoms.

Answer: (C)

Exposure and response prevention aims for habituation to OCD triggers. By repeatedly confronting the thoughts, images, or situations that provoke obsessional fear and refraining from the usual compulsive responses, the anxiety response gradually diminishes. This process strengthens inhibitory learning about the feared outcome and demonstrates that anxiety can be tolerated without performing rituals, so distress and the urge to engage in compulsions lessen over time. It’s not about an instant wipeout of symptoms; initial distress can rise during exposure, but with practice, overall distress decreases and compulsive behaviors decline, leading to meaningful improvement in functioning.