Using the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) in Social Work Assessment

Abstract

The objective of this study was to determine the reliability and validity of the Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) in measuring the severity of obsessive-compulsive symptoms and improvement with treatment in clients already diagnosed with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). A comprehensive review of the literature currently available on the Y-BOCS was conducted. Research revealed that the Y-BOCS was a reliable and valid measure. However, the Y-BOCS was rather limited in discriminating severity of OCD from severity of depression or anxiety. Conclusions indicate that the Y-BOCS is a useful instrument for social work practitioners and should be used in conjunction with a structured clinical interview.

Key Words:

• Obsessive compulsive disorder
• social work assessment
• clinical social work