Harm OCD in Children: The Fear of Harming Yourself or Others

Harm OCD is one of the most frightening and misunderstood themes of OCD, especially when it shows up in children. Intrusive thoughts about hurting oneself or someone else can feel shocking, confusing, and deeply distressing for both kids and parents. These thoughts often clash with a child’s true values, which is exactly why they feel so intense. In this episode, we gently unpack what harm OCD really is and what it is not. We talk about the difference between intrusive thoughts and intent, and why fear can so easily be mistaken for danger. When parents understand the OCD cycle and how it attaches to what matters most, they are better equipped to respond with clarity instead of panic. If you are a parent who has ever felt your heart drop after hearing your child share a scary thought, or if your child has ever been terrified of their own mind, this episode is for you. Resources Discussed in Episode: - Handout of this episode -Videos on Harm OCD: - SPACE Study Course *** This podcast episode is sponsored by NOCD. NOCD provides online OCD therapy in the US, UK, Australia and Canada. To schedule your free 15 minute consultation to see if NOCD is a right fit for you and your child, go to This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the guidance of a qualified professional. Parents, do you need more support? 🌸 Here’s are resources I offer parents 👇🏻❤️ Online classes for parents raising kids with anxiety and OCD: Join the AT Parenting Community (A membership designed to support parents raising kids with anxiety or OCD): Take one of my FREE webinars: Check out my books: 🌸 Other social places I hang out: Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Harm OCD in Children: The Fear of Harming Yourself or Others is an episode from AT Parenting Survival Podcast: Parenting | Child Anxiety | Child OCD | Kids & Family by Natasha Daniels: Child Therapist, Child Anxiety and OCD Expert, Parenting Coach and Parent.

This episode is 42:16 long.

This episode was published on Mar 10, 2026.

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