− | '''Obsessive–compulsive disorder''' ('''OCD''') is an [[anxiety disorder]] characterized by [[intrusive thoughts]] that produce uneasiness, apprehension, fear, or worry, by repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing the associated anxiety, or by a combination of such obsessions and [[Compulsive behavior|compulsions]]. Symptoms of the disorder include excessive washing or cleaning; repeated checking; extreme [[Compulsive hoarding|hoarding]]; preoccupation with [[Sexual obsessions|sexual]], violent or religious thoughts; aversion to particular numbers; and nervous rituals, such as opening and closing a door a certain number of times before entering or leaving a room. These symptoms can be [[Social alienation|alienating]] and time-consuming, and often cause severe emotional and financial distress. The acts of those who have OCD may appear [[paranoid]] and potentially [[psychotic]]. However, OCD sufferers generally recognize their obsessions and compulsions as irrational, and may become further distressed by this realization. | + | '''Obsessive–compulsive disorder''' ('''OCD''') is an [[anxiety disorder]] characterized by intrusive thoughts that produce uneasiness, apprehension, fear, or worry, by repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing the associated anxiety, or by a combination of such obsessions and [[Compulsive behavior|compulsions]]. Symptoms of the disorder include excessive washing or cleaning; repeated checking; extreme [[Compulsive hoarding|hoarding]]; preoccupation with [[Sexual obsessions|sexual]], violent or religious thoughts; aversion to particular numbers; and nervous rituals, such as opening and closing a door a certain number of times before entering or leaving a room. These symptoms can be [[Social alienation|alienating]] and time-consuming, and often cause severe emotional and financial distress. The acts of those who have OCD may appear [[paranoid]] and potentially [[psychotic]]. However, OCD sufferers generally recognize their obsessions and compulsions as irrational, and may become further distressed by this realization. |