An Examination of Magical Beliefs as Predictors of Obsessive-Compulsive Symptom Dimensions

Abstract

Research suggests that the magical belief constructs of superstition, thought-action fusion (TAF), and magical ideation are related to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). However, the nature of these relationships is poorly understood. The current study improved on methodological limitations of previous studies and used the Dimensional Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (DOCS) to conceptualize OCD as a dimensional construct. Relationships between magical belief constructs and four OCD symptom dimensions were examined in a large sample of undergraduates. The magical belief constructs were found to differentially predict all four OCD symptom dimensions. Specifically, magical ideation predicted the following three OCD symptom dimensions: contamination concerns and cleaning/washing compulsions; unacceptable violent, religious, and sexual obsessions and related compulsions; and symmetry obsessions and ordering compulsions. Superstition and TAF Likelihood-Self both predicted obsessions about responsibility for harm, injury, or bad luck and related compulsions. TAF Moral also predicted contamination concerns and cleaning/washing compulsions. Theoretical and clinical implications of these findings are discussed.