@Erinmfs Hello! I see you in other forums here on Mayo Clinic Connect.

Here is an article from Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, about OCD in children: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions---pediatrics/o/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd-in-children.html As you can see they do mention a possible genetic link.

And here is an article from autismspeaks.org that may help you understand some similarities between autism and OCD: https://www.autismspeaks.org/medical-conditions-associated-autism

I have seen that at times, a source will call out OCB, obsessive compulsive behavior, replacing the disorder. In what my lifetime of Asperger's has shown me, the brain is a complicated and miraculous organ in our bodies! The thinking center, it truly is cooking along on all cylinders, all the time. Except when there might be a disconnect somewhere. Symptoms and behaviors may overlap each other, giving pause to what is going on or the cause of issues. It takes a trained professional to make accurate diagnoses. It is not a one-shot and everything is fixed. Many times, it takes hard work from the patient and family members, to adjust and get better/accept the challenges.

For example, her not wanting you to brush her hair. Is it because she wants to do it herself? Does she want a preferred style that only she can judge what it is that day? Does she shy aware from other touch from you? Is you brushing her hair anxiety-producing, in her mind?

Talk to her primary doctor about a workup from a professional. Let her know you support her and want to help her adjust. Not knowing her age, think back to when you were there. Let me know what you think of all this, and let's keep the communication flowing.
Ginger