Summary
In summary, it is important to differentiate between compulsive thoughts and compulsive actions. Compulsive thoughts are thoughts that occur repeatedly and exist for a long time. Furthermore they can also appear in the form of impulses or ideas.
The affected persons feel the compulsive thoughts, impulses or ideas at times as impairing and inappropriate. In this situation, however, the affected persons are often not able to immediately stop the compulsive thoughts, impulses or ideas. Examples: Counting, word repetition Compulsive acts manifest themselves in the form of certain behaviours that occur repeatedly in a very short time.
Usually the person affected feels compelled to act, due to obsessive thoughts or impulses. These behaviours are regarded as rules to be strictly followed and are therefore carried out by the person concerned. Examples: Control behaviour, washing obsession, cleanliness obsession, order obsession
