What type of disorder includes symptoms like compulsive rituals and intrusive thoughts?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is the condition characterized by both compulsive rituals and intrusive thoughts. Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, persistent ideas or images that can cause significant anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to the intrusive thoughts, often aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a feared event or situation.

The nature of OCD is such that individuals may recognize, at least at some level, that their obsessions and compulsions are excessive or irrational, yet they feel compelled to engage in these behaviors to alleviate distress. This disorder is distinct from generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or phobic disorders, where the symptomatology focuses on generalized anxiety, sudden panic attacks, or specific phobias rather than the specific ritualistic and obsessive components found in OCD. Understanding these characteristics helps clarify why hallucinations and compulsive behaviors define OCD effectively.