Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Alternate Names : Obsessive-Compulsive Neurosis, OCD
Definition
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by obsessions or compulsions --having one or both is sufficient for the diagnosis. An obsession is a recurrent and intrusive thought, feeling, idea, or sensation. A compulsion is a conscious, recurrent pattern of behavior a person feels driven to perform.
This behavior can be a physical action (e.g., handwashing) or a mental act (e.g., praying, repeating words silently, counting). The behavior is aimed at neutralizing anxiety or distress. One example of this is excessive handwashing intended to ward off infection.
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