Which of the following is a potential result of untreated obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Choosing to highlight the increase in time spent on compulsions as a potential result of untreated obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) accurately reflects the nature of the disorder. When OCD is not treated, individuals often experience a worsening of their symptoms, which typically manifests as an escalation in the time they dedicate to engaging in compulsions. These compulsive behaviors are performed in an attempt to alleviate the distress caused by obsessive thoughts. As the condition progresses without intervention, individuals may find themselves spending more and more time participating in these compulsions, further impacting their daily functioning and quality of life.

In contrast, significant improvement in functioning is generally linked to effective treatment interventions rather than untreated conditions. Similarly, individuals with untreated OCD are unlikely to experience a complete absence of anxiety symptoms; instead, they often endure persistent anxiety and distress. Lastly, the reduction in obsession frequency typically occurs in response to appropriate treatment strategies, rather than naturally developing in cases where the disorder remains unmanaged. Thus, the choice indicating an increase in time spent on compulsions provides an accurate reflection of the consequences that can arise from untreated OCD.