Compulsione

Compulsione refers to a repetitive and seemingly purposeful behavior or mental act that an individual feels driven to perform, often in response to an obsession or according to rigidly applied rules. These behaviors or mental acts are aimed at preventing or reducing distress or preventing some dreaded event or situation. However, the compulsions are not connected in a realistic way with the event or situation they are designed to neutralize or prevent, or are clearly excessive.

Compulsions can be overt, such as excessive handwashing, checking, ordering, or counting, or covert, such as mentally repeating phrases, praying, or counting. The urge to perform a compulsion can be intense, and the relief from distress is usually temporary. Individuals often recognize that their compulsions are excessive or unreasonable, but they feel unable to resist them.

Compulsions are a core feature of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a mental health condition characterized by a pattern of obsessions and compulsions. However, compulsions can also occur in other conditions, such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Hoarding Disorder, and Tic Disorders. The underlying mechanisms of compulsions are thought to involve a complex interplay of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and medication.