An obsession is defined as what type of thought?

An obsession is characterized as a recurrent and intrusive thought that causes significant anxiety or distress for the individual experiencing it. This type of thought often feels uncontrollable and persists despite the person's efforts to suppress or ignore it. People with obsessions frequently engage in compulsive behaviors or mental rituals in an attempt to negate the distress associated with these thoughts.

The correct understanding of obsessions is integral to recognizing how they impact an individual’s mental health and behavior, as they can significantly interfere with daily functioning. The presence of these thoughts can lead to compulsive actions designed to alleviate the anxiety they provoke, which is a central feature of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).