Which of the following is an example of an obsession?
Obsession and compulsions
Obsession
An obsession is any thought, image, or idea that has the following features and is present for a minimum of 2 weeks (ICD-10)
- They are acknowledged as arising from within the mind (i.e. they are not psychotic beliefs that others have implanted the thoughts)
- They are repetitive and unpleasant
- The patient must try to resist the obsession
- Experiencing the obsession must not be pleasurable
Compulsion
These are physical or mental repetitive behaviours that are used to relieve some of the anxiety caused by the obsessions. The person is also aware that their actions are not realistically connected to what they are trying to neutralize or prevent and know they are excessive.
