Which option best completes this statement: A disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsions?

Which option best completes this statement: A disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsions?

• A. Intrusive thoughts and distressing urges/images
• B. Repetitive behaviors aimed at decreasing distress
• C. Fear of contamination
• D. Intrusive thoughts and distressing urges/images coupled with repetitive behaviours aimed at decreasing the discomfort caused by the thoughts

Answer: (D)

OCD is defined by the presence of obsessions—intrusive, distressing thoughts, urges, or images—paired with compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce the distress or prevent a feared outcome. The option that includes both elements—intrusive thoughts coupled with repetitive behaviors aimed at decreasing the discomfort caused by those thoughts—best matches this disorder’s description. The other choices capture only part of the picture (obsessions alone, compulsions alone, or a single theme like contamination) and don’t reflect the full pattern that defines OCD, which requires both components together.

OCD is defined by the presence of obsessions—intrusive, distressing thoughts, urges, or images—paired with compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce the distress or prevent a feared outcome. The option that includes both elements—intrusive thoughts coupled with repetitive behaviors aimed at decreasing the discomfort caused by those thoughts—best matches this disorder’s description. The other choices capture only part of the picture (obsessions alone, compulsions alone, or a single theme like contamination) and don’t reflect the full pattern that defines OCD, which requires both components together.