Fear of contamination, counting behaviors and having to check and recheck are features characteristic of: UPSC 09
## Core Concept
The question tests knowledge of psychiatric disorders, specifically Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that an individual feels compelled to perform.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer, **Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)**, is the condition that best matches the description provided. OCD is marked by two main features: obsessions and compulsions.
- **Obsessions** are recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are intrusive and cause distress.
- **Compulsions** are repetitive behaviors that a person feels the urge to do in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly.
Fear of contamination and checking behaviors are classic examples of OCD symptoms. For instance, a person with a fear of contamination might excessively wash their hands, and someone with checking compulsions might repeatedly check and recheck that they have locked their door.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A: Simple Phobia** - Simple phobias are irrational fears of specific objects or situations. While they can cause significant distress, they do not typically involve the complex behaviors like counting or checking and rechecking described in the question.
- **Option B: Panic Disorder** - Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent panic attacks, which are discrete periods of intense fear or discomfort. It does not primarily involve obsessions or compulsions.
- **Option D: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)** - GAD is marked by excessive worry about everyday things, even when there's no apparent reason to worry. While individuals with GAD may exhibit some compulsive behaviors, the core features described do not align with GAD.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key clinical pearl for OCD is the "Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS)," a commonly used assessment tool. A memorable point is that OCD often presents with **"washers" (e.g., excessive handwashing due to fear of contamination)**, **"checkers" (e.g., repeatedly checking locks or appliances)**, and **"arrangers" (symmetry obsessions)**.
## Correct Answer: C. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.