Supporting Children with OCD Using the SPACE Method: A Guide For Parents

As a parent, it can be challenging to watch your child struggle with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). However, the good news is that there are evidence-based approaches that can help support your child in managing their symptoms. One approach that has gained traction in recent years is the Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) method. In this guide, we will explore how the SPACE method can help parents support their children with OCD.

What is the SPACE Method?

The SPACE method is a family-based intervention aimed at helping children manage their OCD symptoms. This method involves teaching parents essential skills to create a supportive environment for their child to manage their anxiety and OCD symptoms.

The SPACE method encourages parents to take a facilitating, rather than controlling, approach to parenting. This means that parents help their child manage their anxiety by encouraging them to face their fears on their own, with guidance and support. The SPACE method recognizes that children with OCD benefit from independence, autonomy, and empowerment, which are key to developing their confidence in managing their symptoms.

How does the SPACE Method support children with OCD?

1. Promotes open communication: The SPACE method encourages parents to have open conversations with their children about their OCD symptoms. It helps parents understand their child's feelings, concerns, and level of distress related to their OCD.

2. Helps children face their fears: The SPACE method teaches parents how to support their child with exposure therapy, where the child gradually confronts their fears under the guidance of the therapist. Exposure therapy is a highly effective way of reducing anxiety, and the SPACE method teaches parents how to help their child face their fears gradually.

3. Encourages autonomy and independence: The SPACE method teaches parents how to support their child's independence and autonomy when dealing with their OCD symptoms. Parents learn how to help their child develop their problem-solving skills, encouraging children to take ownership of developing their coping strategies.

4. Focuses on positive reinforcement: The SPACE method emphasizes rewarding positive behavior and progress. This creates a positive and supportive environment that motivates children to keep working on managing their OCD symptoms.

How to use the SPACE method to support your child

1. Educate yourself about OCD: Learn about the symptoms of OCD, its causes, and treatment options. This will help you develop knowledge and understanding, which can help you explain OCD and its impact on your child.

2. Create a supportive home environment: As a parent, it's essential to create a supportive and non-judgmental home environment for your child. Help your child feel like they can discuss their fears and concerns without fear of judgment or criticism.

3. Encourage independence: Let your child be independent when managing their symptoms. Encourage problem-solving and let your child gradually take responsibility for their actions in managing OCD symptoms.

4. Promote positive reinforcement: Celebrate successes and progress, no matter how small. Focus on positive behavior, and avoid punishing them for behavior related to their OCD.

5. Support them in therapy: Support your child in attending therapy to develop coping strategies to manage their OCD symptoms effectively.

Conclusion

The SPACE method offers an effective approach for parents to support their child in managing OCD symptoms. It encourages parents to create a supportive home environment, promote independence, and positive reinforcement that can help reduce anxiety and empower children to manage their fears. Remember that every child is unique, and the treatment for OCD should be tailored to their individual needs. Creating a supportive and loving environment is the first step in helping your child manage and overcome their OCD symptoms, and with the help of the SPACE method, you can empower your child and help them become more capable of managing their OCD now and in the future.

We currently offer SPACE groups for parents of children struggling with OCD and anxiety. You can sign up and read more about the group here.

References:

• Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE) Program. (2021). Anxious Kids Rock. Retrieved from https://www.anxiouskidsrock.com/space-program.html

• Kennedy, R. (2013). The SPACE program: a unique approach to treating childhood anxiety disorders. The National Psychologist, 22(4), 9.

• Cheron, D. M., Ehrenreich-May, J., & Lyon, A. R. (2018). The SPACE program: a clinical case example of a stepped-care intervention for childhood anxiety disorders. Evidence-Based Practice in Child and Adolescent Mental Health, 3(2), 71-85.