Characteristics

• Cognitive

  obsessive thoughts - thought that are recurrent and intrusive relating to particular situation

  Insight into excessive behaviour - aware their thoughts and behaviours are irrational but unable to ignore them
• Emotional

  Anxiety and distress - OCD characterised by overpowering anxiety and the need to fulfil the compulsions

  Guilt and disgust - awareness that behaviour is excessive can lead to negative emotions such as shame
• Behavioural

  Compulsions - need to repeat certain behaviour over and over again to reduce anxiety

  Avoidance - staying away from situation that triggers feared response - not being able to lead a normal life