Which of the following questions, if answered affirmatively, would most likely aid in the diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder?

The option that would most likely aid in the diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is one that directly pertains to the core symptoms of the disorder, which include the presence of obsessions (intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety or distress).

When considering the question about whether the compulsive behavior causes social or occupational problems, a positive response aligns with one of the key diagnostic criteria for OCD. Specifically, the disorder is characterized not only by the presence of obsessions and compulsions but also by the significant distress or impairment they cause in daily life functioning. This impact on social interactions or work performance is critical for establishing that the symptoms are more severe than a transient experience and fall into the diagnostic criteria established in the DSM-5.

In contrast, the other options do not target the essential features of OCD as effectively. For instance, questioning whether bad thoughts are placed by someone else does not directly address the nature of obsessions, as it suggests a different type of thought disturbance. While compulsive behaviors causing anxiety might be relevant, it does not specifically indicate the severity of impairment or the effect on the individual’s life. The thought of harming others bringing enjoyment might relate more to other disorders, like certain