- Some people have obsessive-compulsive disorder, called OCD.
- Scientists studied the brain in people with OCD.
- Participants did a sequence task in an MRI scanner.
- They named colors or shapes in a set order.
- People with OCD did the task as well.
- But their brains showed more activity than controls.
- Extra activity was in memory and vision areas.
- New brain targets could help future treatment.
- Researchers hope to improve brain stimulation methods.
- The study links experiments to daily decision making.
Difficult words
- obsessive-compulsive disorder — a mental illness with repeated unwanted thoughts
- participant — a person who takes part in a studyParticipants
- sequence — a set of things in a fixed order
- control — a group used to compare study resultscontrols
- activity — something the brain or body does
- treatment — health care to help a sick person
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever been in an MRI scanner?
- Do you make many decisions every day?
- Would you try a new treatment if it could help?
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