Obsessive-compulsive behavior refers to the actions a person carries out because of intrusive thoughts they experience. True obsessive-compulsive behavior is part of obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD). Experiencing mild anxiety or having the desire to double-check things once in a while may seem like compulsive behavior, but it is not the same as true OCD. Individuals with OCD can be controlled by their thoughts and behaviors. Symptoms of OCD consist of behaviors as well as the thoughts that trigger those actions.
Obsessions
Compulsive behaviors can stem from obsessions, or thoughts that are persistent, uncontrollable and often unreasonable. These thoughts are often fear-based or full of anxiety. Individuals may fixate on an unreasonable fear, such as continually worrying that an intruder will enter the home. Other common obsessions include fearing contamination from germs, dirt and illness; fear of harm or death coming to loved ones; fear of death or injury and an unwillingness to get rid of anything for fear of being without it later. Focusing on morals or religious beliefs can be seen in individuals with OCD. An example includes focusing on the avoidance of sin for fear of violating religious beliefs.
Compulsions
Compulsions are behaviors fueled by unreasonable thoughts. The act of carrying out such behaviors is calming to an individual with this disorder. It gives a sense of control and fulfillment over being so orderly. The repetition can also cause distress in some individuals. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) describes compulsive behaviors as rituals. Fear for one's safety can lead to repetitive checking of doors, windows and locks. Contamination fears can cause repetitive cleaning rituals that can even lead to skin wounds from excessive scrubbing. Pacing, collecting, counting and focusing on symmetry in the environment are other outward symptoms of obsessive-compulsive behavior. HellpGuide points out that some individuals may develop ticks, such as tapping, counting, repeating words or doing other senseless things in an attempt to control their fear and anxiety.
Other Signs
Individuals with OCD are often aware that their behaviors and thoughts are unreasonable, but it is possible for some individuals to be unaware of their disorder. OCD sufferers can report feeling "crazy" or out of control. The fear over acting on the disorder can lead them to withdraw from social settings, become depressed or have further anxiety over the possibility of being controlled by their obsessions in front of others. Eating disorders can develop from the underlying obsessions, such as the fear of contamination or orderliness. It isn't unusual for an individual to develop obsessions, such as chewing a piece of food an excessive number of times. These residual effects of the disorder can help with the identification of the problem by loved ones. An extremely orderly home or one that is packed full of odd collections can be an after-effect of the obsessive-compulsive behavior.
