Sexual orientation OCD (SO-OCD) is a subtype of OCD that is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors around a person’s sexual orientation. It has been referred to as homosexual OCD (H-OCD); however, this term is increasingly discouraged due to its lack of sensitivity. People with SO-OCD experience intrusive thoughts and urges around denial of or confusion about their true sexual orientation. Someone with SO-OCD may experience fears around being perceived as having a certain sexual orientation, such as gay or straight. They might wonder if they have a sexual orientation other than the one they thought. They may fear they are in denial of their “true” sexual orientation. Or, they might fear that their sexual orientation could abruptly change (e.g., “turn” gay or straight) and what this change will mean for their life. (Will they have to leave their family? Will their relationship end when they discover they are not who they think they are?)
Masturbating makes me feel guilty or afraid. What can I do?
Fear of Sex: Is it OCD, Erotophobia, Genophobia, or something else?
Fears about Bestiality
Fear of being a bad person
Fears about magical impregnation
Fears about polygamy
What if I’m really a child predator?
I can’t stop thinking about molesting a child family member
I have images of sexually assaulting my child and others
Fears about being transgender
Fear of becoming a pedophile
Fears about incest
Fear of Sexual Perversion
Fears about homosexuality
Fears about being straight