On the relevance of experimental studies of cognitive processes for understanding and treating obsessive-compulsive disorder

The advance of cognitive models of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) has inspired a flurry of innovative experimental studies that have investigated various cognitive processes in OCD using a wide range of experimental approaches. This work has significantly expanded our understanding of the condition, informed new treatment approaches, and optimized established ones. Nevertheless, this field of research is currently facing a number of internal challenges, such as the need to develop ecologically valid experimental paradigm, and external ones, such as the growing paradigm shift to neurobiological models of psychopathology. The present Special Issue aims to provide a representative sample of current, cutting-edge experimental research into cognitive processes related to OCD. Contributing authors were asked to discuss the challenges faced, solutions found, and insights gained from their empirical work. We hope that through this unique format, this Special Issue of the Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders will serve to encourage a critical self-reflection within our field, as well as highlight and promote its relevance and unique contribution to the research on OCD.