Taboo OCD Themes (Episode 155)

Taboo OCD Themes (Episode 155)

From Disordered: Anxiety Help by Josh Fletcher and Drew Linsalata

May 15, 2026 · 47 min

About this episode

Drew and OCD specialist Jess Marriner discuss the challenges of taboo OCD themes and the impact of shame on recovery.

OCD is a difficult condition to navigate, but it becomes significantly more challenging when obsessions center on taboo topics. Themes involving harm, pedophilia (pOCD), sexual orientation (HOCD), or moral and religious failure often carry a heavy burden of shame. This shame frequently drives people into silence, preventing them from seeking the help they need. --- Want to talk about this episode with Drew, Josh, and other members of the Disordered community that share your struggle? https://disordered.fm/community --- In this episode, Drew is joined by Jess Marriner, an OCD specialist based in the UK. They discuss why the human brain can latch onto these specific themes and why having a "taboo" thought does not reflect your character or your actual desires. Key Topics Discussed: The Nature of Taboo Thoughts: Recognizing that intrusive thoughts about harm or socially unacceptable acts are common mental occurrences and do not make you a dangerous person. The Role of Shame: How the socially unacceptable nature of these themes feeds the OCD cycle and keeps sufferers isolated. Common Compulsions: Identifying sneaky mental rituals like reassurance seeking, thought…

People in this episode

Host: Drew Linsalata

Guest: Jess Marriner

Topics covered

  • OCD
  • taboo thoughts
  • shame
  • mental health
  • exposure and response prevention
  • intrusive thoughts

Keywords

  • OCD
  • taboo themes
  • intrusive thoughts
  • shame
  • mental rituals
  • ERP
  • recovery

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