Final answer:
In cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), compulsions frequently accompany obsessions and serve the function of reducing the anxiety created by disturbing thoughts.
Step-by-step explanation:
In cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), compulsions frequently accompany obsessions and appear to serve the function of reducing the anxiety created by disturbing thoughts. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels compelled to perform in order to alleviate the distress caused by their obsessions.