Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a psychiatric disorder with a biologic basis. It includes intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive rituals (compulsions). The obsessions produce anxiety while the compulsions reduce anxiety. Anxiety is defined as a "hyperalert state causing excessive autonomic arousal and diminished coping" (1). The obsessions are repetitive thoughts the person cannot keep from having that can include ideas, urges to do something, or images. The comp
ulsions can include excessive hand washing triggered by on obsessive concern about germs. Or, the person may feel constantly unsafe and have to repeatedly check their safety, such as repeatedly making sure that the doors are locked or that the stove has been turned off.
Diagnosis is based on the individual's symptoms and can include interview, observation, the use of questionnaires, and reports from family members regarding the person's difficulties.
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