Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – OCD and Avoiding Stepping on Cracks
Have you ever heard the little child saying, "Step on a crack and break your mother's back?"
That is superstition. Some OCD's are based on superstitions on things that have been said to bring bad luck like stepping on cracks. Although we know that this is obvious OCD and saying these things to children can actually foster an OCD personality.
What is good to realize is that stepping on a crack does absolutely nothing in any way shape or form and will certainly not have anything to do with what happens to your mother's back.
We need to stop reciting these nonsensical things and focus on what is real. Teach our children true world values and Godly values and don't blindly quote old superstitious sayings.
So how do we reverse the thinking? Have a kid go on a walk with mother, then have her step on a crack. She will notice that nothing has happened to her mother. This is good to do with children when they are young. To stop the development of OCD in your child before it has a chance to grow and morph.
I'm not sure exactly where the superstition came from, but that's not what's really important. The important lesson here is to challenge beliefs and superstitions like breaking mirrors or having a black cat. These are all things that will not have any consequences that have nothing to do directly with them.
Take action: When you hear superstitions, pay no attention to them. There are cultures out there the believe in superstitions more than some other cultures. No matter what culture you are from, you have your own mind and don't be afraid to question other people's beliefs.
by Derek Soto
Gloss