IOCDF Criticizes Misuse of OCD in M. Night Shyamalan’s Trap
The International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) strongly criticizes the careless and misleading use of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) in the recent movie Trap (2024), directed by M. Night Shyamalan. In the film, a throwaway line references OCD in a way that perpetuates harmful stereotypes and that suggests a connection between OCD and violent, criminal behavior. This casual mention is not only factually incorrect but also reinforces damaging myths that contribute to the ongoing stigma surrounding OCD and other mental health conditions. OCD is a serious mental health disorder that affects up to two percent of the global population. It involves unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) performed to alleviate the distress caused by these thoughts. Common compulsions include checking, counting, ruminating, or washing, all aimed at reducing anxiety or
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