"In modern formulations of OCD, compulsions are defined by their functional relationship with obsessions - they lessen the impact of an unwanted intrusive thought or a doubting narrative or a stuck repetitive image. The purpose of a compulsion is to counteract the anxiety, disgust, guilt or discomfort that the obsession has raised."
"Sometimes the compulsion is apparently logical ('I feel dirty, so I wash') and sometimes not ('I might have hurt someone, so I will tap three times and turn around'). Whether it makes sense or not, this temporary relief completes a reinforcing loop in which the obsession returns. And the OCD persists."
"One can think of the compulsions as the engine that drives the next obsession. Compulsions typically provide some measure of safety, certainty, morality, balance, or relief of discomfort, but almost universally, only temporarily."
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder involves compulsions defined by their functional relationship with obsessions rather than being purely involuntary behaviors. Compulsions serve to temporarily counteract anxiety, disgust, guilt, or discomfort triggered by intrusive thoughts, doubts, or stuck images. While some compulsions appear logically connected to obsessions (washing when feeling dirty), others seem illogical (tapping to prevent harm). Regardless of their apparent logic, compulsions provide temporary relief through safety, certainty, or comfort. This temporary relief creates a reinforcing loop where obsessions return, perpetuating OCD. Compulsions drive subsequent obsessions, making them the engine sustaining the disorder. These rituals often become burdensome due to time consumption, unpleasantness, social disappointment, and self-critical awareness.
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Read at Psychology Today
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