A Compulsion is a repetitive behavior or mental act that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession (intrusive thought) or according to rigid rules. These compulsions are often an attempt to reduce distress or prevent feared outcomes.
Key Points:
- Examples: Excessive hand-washing, checking locks repeatedly, counting, repeating words silently.
- Role in OCD: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves both obsessions (unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (behaviors to neutralize anxiety).
- Cycle of Anxiety: Performing compulsions temporarily relieves anxiety but reinforces the need to keep doing them.
- Treatment: CBT with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a mainstay; sometimes combined with medication (SSRIs).
