Martha believes that if she doesn't keep checking the stove in the kitchen,there may be a gas leakage and an explosion.Consequently,Martha keeps checking whether the stove has been turned off over and over again,sometimes over fifty times a day.This practice interferes with her sleep and disturbs her thoughts.In the context of anxiety and anxiety-related disorders,Martha's recurrent thoughts about the possibility of an explosion are called _____.

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Martha's recurrent thoughts about the possibility of an explosion indicate that she is experiencing an obsession, which is a common symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Obsessions are persistent, intrusive, and unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses that cause significant distress or anxiety. The compulsive behavior of repeatedly checking the stove is also a common symptom of OCD and is a response to the distress caused by the obsession. Delusions and hallucinations are not relevant to Martha's case as she is not experiencing false beliefs or sensory perceptions that are not based in reality.

Martha Believes That If She Doesn't Keep Checking the Stove