Where Lines Blur: Ethical Decision-Making in the Overlap of OCD and Eating Disorders

Eating disorders (EDs) in children and adolescents often present with overlapping features of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), complicating both diagnosis and treatment. This presentation explores the nuanced relationship between OCD and EDs, highlighting common ethical concerns about treatment direction and scope of practice to improve clinical outcomes. We will examine how OCD symptoms such as contamination fears, moral rigidity, and perfectionism can morph into or exacerbate eating pathology. Using current research, clinical decision trees, and case examples, Dr. Allison Chase and Dr. Jessica Tauber will provide guidance on how to navigate the complexity between EDs and OCD. Participants will be given tools to differentiate both symptoms and treatment approaches. Ethical considerations including responsible assessment and treatment planning will be discussed and highlighted in the challenges of treating these disorders.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Differentiate between core features of eating disorders (ED) and obsessive-compulsive disorder…