What characterizes Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is primarily characterized by the presence of obsessions, which are intrusive and unwanted thoughts, and compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed in response to these obsessions. Individuals with OCD feel compelled to carry out these behaviors in order to reduce the anxiety caused by their obsessions or to prevent a feared event from occurring. Therefore, the aspect of engaging in repetitive behaviors to mitigate obsessions is a core feature of OCD.

Other conditions can present with excessive worry about social situations, extreme mood swings, or detachment from reality; however, these characteristics are not specific to OCD. For instance, excessive worry about social situations is more aligned with social anxiety disorder, while mood swings are indicative of mood disorders, and detachment from reality may be seen in psychotic disorders. Thus, engaging in compulsive behaviors to alleviate obsessive thoughts distinctly characterizes OCD and underscores the disorder's diagnosis.