Martha believes that if she doesn't keep checking the stove in the kitchen,a gas leakage may occur and may cause 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 are a characteristic feature of obsessions, which are intrusive and persistent thoughts, urges or images that are experienced as distressing and that are not easily controlled or eliminated. The fact that Martha engages in repetitive behaviors, such as checking the stove, to reduce her anxiety is a sign that she also experiences compulsions, which are repetitive and ritualistic behaviors or mental acts that are undertaken to reduce distress or prevent a feared outcome. However, the content of her thoughts is more consistent with obsessions, as she is preoccupied with thoughts of danger and harm, and does not derive a sense of pleasure or adherence from her compulsive behavior. Both obsessions and compulsions are core symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

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