OCD is characterized by recurrent, unwanted and unpleasant thoughts (obsessions), and or repetitive, ritualistic behaviors, which the person feels driven to perform (compulsions). People with OCD know their obsessions and compulsions are irrational or excessive, yet they find they have little or no control over them
Some Typical Obsessions
- Dirt, Germs and Contamination
- Fear of acting on violent or aggressive impulses
- Feeling overly responsible for the safety of others
- Abhorrent religious (blasphemous) and sexual thoughts