Compulsions

Stephen E. Ghazikhanian, M.D., Paul Nestadt, M.D., Gerald Nestadt, M.D.

DEFINITION

  • A compulsion is a repetitive behavior or mental act that a person feels compelled to perform in response to an obsession or according to specific rules. These behaviors or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing anxiety, distress, or a dreaded event; however, these behaviors or acts are not connected in a realistic way to what they are designed to prevent or are clearly excessive.[1]

A compulsion can involve diverse behaviors, including:[2][3]

  • Cleaning or washing
  • Checking
  • Repeating
  • Counting
  • Ordering/arranging
  • Hoarding
  • Seeking constant reassurance
  • Miscellaneous: need to confess/tell/ask questions, rituals/superstitions, list-making, touching/tapping

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