Serving the community since 1999

Specializing in OCD and related conditions

In-Person and Online Therapy
Individual & Group Therapy

Specializing in the Treatment of OCD,
Olfactory Reference Syndrome,
And Related Conditions

 

Olfactory Reference Syndrome Test

Olfactory Reference Syndrome (ORS) is an obsessive, irrational fear that one is emitting a foul or unpleasant odor. The OCD Center of Los Angeles offers this free and confidential test to help you get a better idea of whether or not you are exhibiting signs of Olfactory Reference Syndrome. Simply check those items that apply to you, and email the test to us using the simple form below. While this questionnaire is not meant to replace a thorough evaluation, it may help in identifying traits of Olfactory Reference Syndrome.


1.  I frequently worry about the way I smell.


2.  I frequently check my odor by smelling self.


3.  I excessively perform basic grooming activities (i.e., showering, brushing teeth, changing underwear, changing socks, etc.) in an attempt to control my odor.


4.  I frequently use perfume, deodorants, mouthwash, and/or special hygiene products to control or camouflage my odor.


5.  I often attempt to hide my odor by maintaining certain body positions, and/or by staying in places where I believe my odor will be less noticeable by others (i.e., a remote corner in a theatre or restaurant).


6.  I often stand at a distance when around others because I am concerned that they will detect my odor.


7.  I avoid certain places and/or activities (i.e., restaurants, parties, weddings, socializing with friends, going shopping, etc.) because I am concerned that others will detect my odor.


8.  I avoid exercising because I am afraid it will cause me to have a bad odor.


9.  I avoid certain foods in an attempt to control how I smell.


10.  I often smell others’ odor for comparison.


11.  I sometimes discuss my odor with other people.


12. I often ask others for reassurance about my odor.


13. I have consulted with specialists (i.e. doctors, dentists) regarding my odor.


14.  I have undergone special medical or dental procedures in an attempt to correct my odor.


15.   I am planning or hoping to have odor-related medical or dental procedures in the future.


16.  I am often late for activities because I am doings certain behaviors in an attempt to control my odor or I am worrying about my odor.


17.  I am often very anxious when I fear my odor will be smelled by others.


18.  I often believe others notice my odor and/or are thinking negative thoughts about the way I smell.


19.  I sometimes think others are discussing or commenting on my odor.


20.  I am significantly distressed, anxious, and/or depressed about my odor.


21.  My concerns about my odor are interfering with my relationships and/or with my academic or professional functioning.


22.  My concerns about my odor are interfering with my relationships and/or with my academic or professional functioning.


23. I spend

hours per day thinking about my odor.


24. I worry most about the following odors: 


*Country

Please note: By sending this email, you are agreeing to be contacted by the OCD Center of Los Angeles. We respect your privacy and confidentiality and we will never share, sell, rent, loan, or give away your name, email address, or any other personal information to anyone.

If you would like more information about Olfactory Reference Syndrome, or would like to discuss individual therapy, group therapy, online therapy, or intensive treatment at the OCD Center of Los Angeles, you can call us at (310) 824-5200, or click here to email us.


This questionnaire was developed partly on the basis of clinical experience of staff therapists at the OCD Center of Los Angeles, and partly as an adaptation of various pre-existing psychometric measures, including the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (YBOCS), and Katherine Phillips’ “The Broken Mirror”. Please note that the above test is not meant to replace a complete and thorough evaluation by a licensed Cognitive-Behavioral therapist or other qualified mental health professional. Some individuals may benefit from medication, and may therefore require a psychiatric evaluation. Likewise, a psychiatric assessment may be necessary to differentiate between Olfactory Reference Syndrome and other psychological conditions. If an evaluation is indicated, the OCD Center of Los Angeles can refer you to a qualified psychiatrist in our area. Furthermore, it is imperative to make the distinction between OCD and other medical conditions. For this reason, a medical examination may be a necessary part of ORS treatment.

    

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