Compulsion

Compulsion refers to a repetitive behavior or mental act that a person feels driven to perform, often to reduce anxiety or distress caused by obsessive thoughts. These actions are usually not based on logical reasons and can become compulsive when they are performed excessively or ritualistically, interfering with daily life. Common examples include repeated hand-washing, checking, or counting. Compulsions are characteristic of certain mental health conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), where they serve as a temporary relief from persistent, intrusive worries or fears, but ultimately perpetuate the cycle of anxiety.