The realm of abnormal psychology includes recurrent and persistent thoughts, urges, or images that are experienced as intrusive and unwanted, causing marked anxiety or distress. These phenomena, often referred to as a key concept within the AP Psychology curriculum, are not simply excessive worries about real-life problems. An example would be a constant, intrusive fear of contamination, leading to significant discomfort and the compulsion to engage in repetitive behaviors.
Understanding this specific concept is fundamental for students as it provides a foundation for comprehending various psychological disorders. It also allows for a more nuanced understanding of the human experience, highlighting how seemingly normal thoughts can, under certain conditions, become sources of significant suffering. Historically, the study of these experiences has informed the development of therapeutic interventions designed to alleviate the distress they cause.
