What is the primary function of compulsions according to the definition?

The primary function of compulsions, as defined in the DSM-5-TR, is to reduce the anxiety or distress caused by obsessions. Individuals who experience obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often have intrusive and distressing thoughts (obsessions) that provoke significant anxiety. In response to this anxiety, they perform certain behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at alleviating their distress or preventing a feared event or situation. This cycle of obsessions and compulsions is a hallmark of OCD.

The effectiveness of compulsions in temporarily reducing anxiety reinforces the behavior, leading individuals to engage in them repeatedly. Over time, this can create significant impairment in daily functioning and contribute to the persistence of the disorder.

Other options do not accurately capture the core function of compulsions. The reason compulsions are not primarily linked to calming panic disorders is that OCD and panic disorder are distinct diagnoses, even though they can coexist. Avoiding social situations describes avoidance behavior often seen in social anxiety disorder rather than compulsions associated with OCD. Finally, while some individuals with OCD may have perfectionistic tendencies, the motivation for compulsions is fundamentally about managing anxiety rather than fulfillment of perfectionism.