Source Memory in Individuals with Subclinical Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms

Abstract

Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder often complain of poor memory and results of neuropsychological research have demonstrated impairments, particularly on tasks involving strategic processing. Past research has relied heavily on highly structured tasks where subjects are told exactly what to do. However, memory deficits may be more apparent for unstructured visuospatial tasks. This study examined performance on such a task. In the present study we sought to test source and item memory using an ecologically valid paradigm -The Memory for Rooms Test (MFRT) - a four-room task in which participants attempted to remember objects in the context of rooms. In addition, we sought to examine verbal and nonverbal memory in individuals with subclinical OCD using the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT) and Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT). On the MFRT, Individuals with subclinical OC symptoms performed more poorly on item recognition. No impairments were found in terms of source memory. On the CVLT and RCFT, individuals with subclinical obsessive symptoms were less likely to utilize efficient organizational strategies. Our results demonstrate impairments in some aspects of organization and memory in individuals with subclinical obsessive-compulsive symptoms.