Obsessive compulsive disorder is primarily associated with which types of symptoms?

The focus of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) centers around intrusive obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress. Individuals with OCD often feel compelled to engage in compulsions, which are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed in response to the obsessions. These compulsions are intended to reduce the anxiety associated with the obsessions or to prevent a feared event or situation.

Understanding the nature of OCD is important, as the disorder is characterized specifically by this cycle of obsessions leading to compulsions. For example, a person might obsessively worry about contamination, which then leads them to compulsively wash their hands repeatedly. This dynamic distinguishes OCD from other mental health conditions.

In contrast, the other options describe symptoms associated with different disorders. Intrusive memories and flashbacks are more characteristic of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Intense fear and avoidance behaviors are commonly associated with anxiety disorders, particularly phobias. Extreme mood swings are typically related to mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder. Each of these conditions presents distinct symptomatology that varies significantly from the core features of OCD.