Which condition is characterized by obsessions that are intrusive irrational impulses and compulsions that are repetitive acts to relieve stress?

Which condition is characterized by obsessions that are intrusive irrational impulses and compulsions that are repetitive acts to relieve stress?

• A. A mood disorder with persistent sadness
• B. Characterized by obsessions which are intrusive irrational impulses and compulsions which are repetitive acts.
• C. A disorder with memory loss
• D. A substance-induced condition

Answer: (B)

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves obsessions—intrusive, irrational impulses or thoughts that trigger anxiety—and compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to relieve that anxiety or prevent a feared outcome. The compulsions are intended to lessen the distress from the obsessions, even though they’re often excessive or not logically connected to what they’re trying to prevent. This cycle—anxiety from obsessions followed by ritualized actions to reduce that anxiety—defines the condition. It’s distinct from mood disorders (which center on persistent sadness), memory loss disorders, or substance-induced conditions, which don’t feature this obsession-compulsion pattern.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves obsessions—intrusive, irrational impulses or thoughts that trigger anxiety—and compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to relieve that anxiety or prevent a feared outcome. The compulsions are intended to lessen the distress from the obsessions, even though they’re often excessive or not logically connected to what they’re trying to prevent. This cycle—anxiety from obsessions followed by ritualized actions to reduce that anxiety—defines the condition. It’s distinct from mood disorders (which center on persistent sadness), memory loss disorders, or substance-induced conditions, which don’t feature this obsession-compulsion pattern.