What Are Compulsions?
In psychology, compulsions are defined as repetitive behaviors or thoughts which drives one to act according to an obsession or according to rigid rules. These acts are not performed for pleasure or reward, but often to prevent or reduce distress temporarily.
While some compulsions may seem logical on the surface (like rechecking a locked door), they are usually disproportionate to the actual threat or completely unrelated to the feared outcome.
Compulsions vs. Habits
It’s important to note that compulsions are not the same as habits. Habits are automatic behaviors we develop over time and help one to function better. An example of a habit is brushing teeth before bed. Compulsions, on the other hand, are:
• Driven by distress or anxiety
• Experienced as necessary to prevent something bad from happening
• Often recognized as excessive or irrational by the person performing them
• Very difficult to resist
Compulsions and Obsessions: Why Do People Perform Compulsions?
Compulsions and obsessions are concepts which are closely interlinked. To most people, these two concepts go hand in hand, especially in the context of OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder). And yes, these two concepts are closely related to one another but are nevertheless, different.
Obsessions are repetitve, intrusive thoughts which cause anxiety, making an individual want to perform certain actions. A person having obsessions associate their obsessive thoughts with certain consequences like causing harm to others or to oneself, being a bad person or losing control.
Compulsions are behaviours performed in response of one’s obsessive thoughts. Compulsions serve as temporary anxiety relievers. When a person acts on a compulsion, the obsessive fear often decreases for a moment. But over time, compulsions reinforce the idea that the threat is real and that safety depends on performing the behavior. This creates a vicious cycle:
Obsession → Anxiety → Compulsion → Temporary Relief → Obsession returns
It’s a loop that can become increasingly demanding and time-consuming.
Here’s an example of a compulsion:
“You’re about to leave home and feel a sudden thought: “What if I left the stove on and the house burns down?” Even though you know you turned it off, you still feel anxious. “What if I didn’t turn it off or it turned on its own?” To relieve yourself from this looming, persistent fear/anxiety, you go back and check not once, but ten times and still feel unsure.”
The act of checking the stove over and over again in an attempt to reduce the experienced fear or anxiety is understood as a compulsion.
The Link Between Compulsions and OCD
Compulsions are a core feature of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a mental health condition affecting millions worldwide. In OCD, compulsions are driven by intrusive, unwanted obsessions that cause significant emotional distress.
Examples of compulsions:
• Contamination OCD (compulsion: frequent handwashing)
• Symmetry/ orderly OCD (compulsion: arranging objects in a precise or symmetrical way)
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (compulsion: checking mirrors repeatedly)
• Health Anxiety (compulsion: excessive body checking or Googling symptoms) Repeated handwashing due to fear of contamination
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (compulsion: mental reassurance-seeking)
When to Seek Help
With the right support, compulsions can be managed and significantly reduced. If you or someone you care about is stuck in repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily life, relationships, or mental peace, you’re not alone and it’s not your fault.
Compulsions aren’t signs of weakness or lack of willpower. They are coping strategies the brain has latched onto in an attempt to manage anxiety.
If you’re ready to explore ways to reduce the hold of compulsions and live with more freedom and ease, reach out for support.
📞 Contact Happy Minds at +977 9801031443 to book a confidential counseling session or learn more about therapy.