Which disorder is characterized by persistent obsessions and/or compulsions?

Which disorder is characterized by persistent obsessions and/or compulsions?

• A. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
• B. Panic Disorder
• C. Social Anxiety Disorder
• D. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Answer: (D)

Persistent obsessions and/or compulsions define obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause anxiety. To relieve that distress, people engage in compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed in response to the obsessions, often aimed at preventing something feared. These patterns are time-consuming and impair daily functioning. This combination is distinct from generalized anxiety disorder, which involves broad, diffuse worry; from panic disorder, which centers on sudden panic attacks; and from social anxiety disorder, which involves intense fear of social scrutiny. So the persistent obsessions and/or compulsions point specifically to obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Persistent obsessions and/or compulsions define obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause anxiety. To relieve that distress, people engage in compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed in response to the obsessions, often aimed at preventing something feared. These patterns are time-consuming and impair daily functioning. This combination is distinct from generalized anxiety disorder, which involves broad, diffuse worry; from panic disorder, which centers on sudden panic attacks; and from social anxiety disorder, which involves intense fear of social scrutiny. So the persistent obsessions and/or compulsions point specifically to obsessive-compulsive disorder.