Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
OCD is a mental disorder characterized by repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform in order to alleviate anxiety or distress.
Related terms
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): ERP is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy specifically designed for treating OCD. It involves gradually exposing individuals to feared situations while refraining from engaging in compulsive behaviors.
SSRIs are medications commonly prescribed for OCD as they work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help reduce symptoms.
Hoarding Disorder: Hoarding disorder is a related condition characterized by excessive collecting and difficulty discarding possessions, often resulting in cluttered living spaces.
"Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)" also found in: