Compulsive

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Compulsive

Compulsive (/kəmˈpʌlsɪv/), derived from the Latin word 'compellere', meaning 'to drive or push', is a term used in psychology to describe a type of behavior or mental state where an individual feels the need to perform certain behaviors or rituals repeatedly. It is often associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a mental health disorder characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions).

Definition

Compulsive behaviors are actions that are done repeatedly and not being able to control the urge to do them, even if the behaviors are unnecessary or harmful. They are often a way of coping with unwanted thoughts and fears. However, the relief does not last long and the compulsive behaviors often cause significant distress and interfere with daily life.

Related Terms

  • Obsession: An idea or thought that continually preoccupies or intrudes on a person's mind.
  • Compulsion: A strong, usually irresistible impulse to perform an act, especially one that is irrational or contrary to one's will.
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A chronic disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over.
  • Anxiety: A mental health disorder characterized by feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are strong enough to interfere with one's daily activities.

Etymology

The term 'compulsive' is derived from the Latin word 'compellere', which means 'to drive or push'. It was first used in the psychological sense in the early 20th century.

Pronunciation

Compulsive is pronounced as /kəmˈpʌlsɪv/.

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski