What do obsessions typically involve?

Obsessions are characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts that are unwanted, causing significant distress or anxiety for the person experiencing them. These thoughts are often persistent and can be distressing, interfering with daily functioning. People may recognize that these thoughts are not based in reality or are excessive, but they find themselves unable to control or dismiss them. This aligns perfectly with the definition of obsessions found in mental health contexts, particularly in conditions such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

The other options illustrate concepts that are not consistent with the nature of obsessions. For instance, thoughts that are pleasant and desirable do not represent the distressing nature of obsessions. Fixed beliefs supported by logic would relate more to delusions, where the individual firmly holds a belief despite contrary evidence. Lastly, physical symptoms of anxiety are typically associated with physiological responses to anxiety rather than the cognitive aspects of obsessions, which are centered around intrusive thoughts.