Fake Hand Contamination Helps Overcome OCD

A renowned illusion that involves a rubber hand could help improve the lives of those suffering from OCD (obsessive-compulsive behavior). The fake hand illusion is said to help these patients overcome their condition without subjecting themselves to stressful exposure therapy.

One in fifty people is affected by OCD globally. Showing fears connected to severe contamination is a distinct characteristic in OCD patients. This leads to handwashing too many times. Instead of treating the patient to exposure and response prevention therapy and Prozac, patients use a fake rubber hand. The process is called multisensory stimulation therapy.

The said therapy makes the patient place both hands on the table. The right hand is not really seen by the patient. Instead, a fake rubber hand is there.

The experimenter or the illusionist stimulates the concealed right hand and the visible right hand. Stroking the real and fake right hand simultaneously allows sensation to arise from the fake hand.

This can also help those who are afraid of needles.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/01/200109090839.htm