An unwanted thought that repeatedly intrudes upon an individual’s consciousness is called
a. a delusion.
b. an obsession.
c. a compulsion.
d. a hallucination.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is:
b. an obsession.
Explanation:
An obsession is an intrusive, persistent, and unwanted thought, image, or urge that repeatedly enters a person’s mind, causing significant distress or anxiety. These thoughts are often irrational or exaggerated but feel uncontrollable to the person experiencing them. Obsessions are a key symptom of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) but can also occur in other mental health conditions.
For example, someone with OCD may experience obsessive thoughts about contamination (e.g., fear of germs), harming others (e.g., fear of accidentally hurting a loved one), or making mistakes (e.g., fear of forgetting to lock the door). These thoughts often provoke intense anxiety, leading individuals to engage in compulsions—repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce the distress caused by the obsession.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
- a. A delusion refers to a false belief held with strong conviction despite clear evidence to the contrary. Delusions are commonly seen in psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. For example, someone may believe they are being followed by the government without any evidence.
- c. A compulsion is a repetitive behavior or mental act performed to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event. While obsessions involve intrusive thoughts, compulsions involve actions, such as excessive handwashing or checking locks repeatedly.
- d. A hallucination is a false sensory perception that occurs without an external stimulus. Hallucinations can involve hearing voices, seeing things that are not there, or feeling sensations without a physical cause. They are commonly associated with schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders.
In summary, obsessions are intrusive and unwanted thoughts that repeatedly enter a person’s mind, distinguishing them from delusions, compulsions, or hallucinations.