The relationship between sensory phenomena and interoception across the obsessive–compulsive spectrum: a systematic review
Lizzie A. Wilson, Jessica Scarfo, Mikayla E. Jones, Imogen C. Rehm
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Uncomfortable sensations preceding repetitive behaviours, known as sensory phenomena, have been documented across the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. Indirect evidence suggests altered interoception may play a role in these shared experiences of sensory phenomena; however, research explicitly measuring this relationship is limited. The current systematic review aimed to establish the nature of sensory phenomena and interoception in obsessive-compulsive and related disorders (OCRDs) and tic disorders as potential maintaining factors of these disorders. METHODS: PsycINFO, PubMed, and Scopus databases were searched from 2007 to April 2024, yielding 65 studies. RESULTS: While the majority of studies presented low risk of bias, significant overlap and ambiguity characterised the measurement and conceptualisation of sensory phenomena and interoception. Overall, higher sensory phenomena was associated with greater symptom severity in several obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorders. Obsessive-compulsive disorder and tic disorder samples were characterised by lower interoceptive accuracy, with mixed findings on interoceptive sensibility. Some limited research emerged suggesting altered interoceptive abilities may be associated with greater sensory phenomena in obsessive-compulsive disorder and tic disorders. CONCLUSIONS: Sensory phenomena are experienced across the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. Future research should explore interoceptive abilities across the OCRDs, and build upon evidence supporting a relationship between sensory phenomena and interoception in OCD and tic disorders. TRIAL REGISTRATION: CRD42023422817.