Target's "OCD" Christmas Sweater (Photo : Twitter)
Target is being hit hard on social media for its bright red "Obsessive Christmas Disorder" Christmas sweater, as mental health advocates argue that it makes light of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). While some people and organizations have demanded the nationwide retail chain to pull the controversial product from its shelves and online store, it has no plans to stop selling the winter clothing during the holiday season.
Target's OCD sweater has a $22.40 price tag. It is part of the retail giant's Ugly Christmas Sweater collection, which makes fun of bright and loud Yuletide clothing that often contains super-size images of snowmen, snowflakes, and reindeer.
Other sweaters in the collection include Darth Vader Christmas and Ugly Christmas Tree. However, they have not caused many complaints.
People have responded to the hot topic on social media. Some people have tweeted that Target should remove the Christmas sweater, while others have argued that people are being too politically correct.
One woman with OCD wrote that the condition is not a joke. However, she does not think the OCD sweater is offensive.
Target spokeswoman Jessica Carlson said that that the company does not want to make its guests feel disappointed or uncomfortable, according to Chicago Tribune. However, it also has no plans to remove the sweater.
OCD is a condition that is mostly linked to anxiety and stress. People with it often have habits such as checking, repeating or washing, which are a reaction to upsetting or unwanted thoughts. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that OCD affects around 2.2 million American adults.
Target has offended other customers in the past. In 2013 the retail chain labeled the plus-size version of a dress Manatee Gray, according to KUTV. It referred to a large marine mammal also called a "sea cow."
