What distinguishes obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) from other anxiety disorders?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is specifically characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rules that must be applied rigidly. This distinct combination is what sets OCD apart from other anxiety disorders, which may involve anxiety related to various stimuli or situations but do not typically have this specific pattern of obsessive thoughts followed by compulsive actions.

Other anxiety disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder, do not involve these obsessions and compulsions but instead focus on broader anxiety symptoms, such as excessive worry, fear of social interactions, or specific phobias. Thus, the defining feature of OCD lies in the unique interplay of obsessions and compulsions, making option B the correct choice.