Credo Reference-Obsessive Compulsive DisorderObsessive compulsive disorder is defined in the DSM-IV as the presence of either obsessions or compulsions (or both). Obsessions are defined as recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses or images that are experienced as intrusive and inappropriate and that cause marked anxiety or distress. They are not simply excessive worries about life’s problems; the person attempts to ignore, suppress or neutralise them in some way and they recognise that they are a product of their own mind and are excessive or unreasonable. Compulsions are repetitive behaviours (e.g. handwashing, ordering, checking) or mental acts (e.g. praying, counting, repeating words silently) that the person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession, or according to rules that must be applied rigidly. These behaviours are aimed at reducing distress or preventing some dreaded event or situation; however, they are not connected in a realistic way with what they are designed to neutralise or prevent, or are clearly excessive.