Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in three understudied populations: A review of Latino, Black, and Sexual & Gender Minority Individuals

This review overviews the research base for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) among three historically understudied populations; Latino/Latin Americans, Black/African Americans, and Sexual and Gender Minority individuals. Findings suggest that while core OCD symptoms are broadly similar across groups, sociocultural factors such as discrimination, minority stress, stigma, family context, spirituality, and access to care significantly influence symptom presentation, severity, and treatment utilization. Recent studies have evaluated assessment tools and provided evidence supporting exposure and response prevention, while emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive assessment and treatment. Large-scale initiatives are also improving representation in OCD research and addressing longstanding disparities in knowledge and care. OCD presents similarly across diverse populations, but cultural and contextual factors shape symptom expression and treatment experiences. Future research should prioritize representative samples, culturally informed assessment, and greater access to evidence-based care.