Perceived need of psychological support for taboo obsessions in new parents: A cross-sectional survey
Previous research has shown that many new parents experience intrusive thoughts about intentionally harming their child, also known as “taboo obsessions”. These thoughts can for some parents lead to increased anxiety, depression and have a negative impact on parental function and quality of life. Taboo obsessions can be stigmatizing and many parents who could benefit from psychological support do not seek help. One way to increase access to psychological interventions for new parents could be to deliver the treatment online. Our research group has developed and evaluated an internet-delivered intervention targeting taboo obsessions in individuals with a diagnosis obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), with promising results. It is conceivable that the intervention could be helpful to a large proportion of parents from the general population who struggle with taboo obsessions (i.e. not only individuals with OCD). In the current study, 594 new parents filled out an online survey about taboo obsessions and the perceived need for psychological support. Fifty six percent reported currently experiencing or had previously experienced taboo obsessions. About half (54%) responded that the taboo obsessions had a negative impact on their self-image. Additionally, 18-19% reported that the intrusive thoughts were difficult to control and/or had a negative impact on the relationship to the child. Importantly, 51% responded that they would absolutely or probably like to try online treatments for these intrusive thoughts. Keeping the limitations of an online survey in mind, the results suggest that an online intervention targeting taboo obsessions in new parents could be well received.