Target recently began selling its “OCD Obsessive Christmas Disorder” sweater as part of its Ugly Christmas Sweater Collection, according to News Max.
Despite being criticized for its play on obsessive-compulsive disorder, Target announced that it does not plan to take the sweater off of the shelves, according to NY Daily News.
“We never want to disappoint our guests and we apologize for any discomfort. We currently do not have plans to remove this sweater," a spokesperson said.
Social media users have spoken out against Target, claiming that the retailer is making light of a serious mental illness.
@Target as someone with OCD I'd really appreciate it if you didn't sell my illness as a fashion statement pic.twitter.com/34egtLAkof
— Reign (@ReignMurphy) October 25, 2015
Disappointed to see this at Target. OCD can be crippling, and I feel like stuff like this marginalizes it. pic.twitter.com/ioa2lJSRhS — Taylor (@taylorriffic_w) November 6, 2015
Can't wait for the rest of @Target disease themed fashion line. Next up: PTSD (People That Shop Disorder) pic.twitter.com/kf0ZBxnnOm
— Allison Raskin (@AllisonRaskin) November 9, 2015
Those suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorder often have thoughts and fears that lead them to perform repetitive behavior, according to the Mayo Clinic. Victims of the disorder are reportedly driven to perform compulsive acts in an effort to ease the anxiety that comes with their fears.
OCD often starts during childhood and currently affects about 2.2 million American adults, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
A handful of social media users have defended both Target and the sweater.
As someone with OCD @Target's #OCD sweater doesn't offend me the least bit. — KimB18 (@JustKimB) November 10, 2015
As someone who has OCD I don't see any reason to be angry about @Target's "offensive" sweater - it's perfectly even! pic.twitter.com/wzUQ3WTGA8
— Weston David Pagano (@wpazzurri) November 11, 2015
