AP Psychology – Common Psychology Terms

Which term refers to a thought, idea, feeling, or impulse that a person cannot escape?

Compulsion Impulse Obsession Delusion

Correct Answer:

Obsession

Explanation:

Obsession is a persistent, intrusive thought, image, or urge that a person cannot escape or ignore. This description fits a thought, idea, feeling, or impulse that keeps intruding despite attempts to dismiss it. In contrast, a compulsion is the repetitive action taken to try to relieve the distress caused by the obsession. An impulse is a sudden urge but not necessarily one that is relentless or distressing over time. A delusion is a firmly held false belief that remains despite evidence to the contrary.

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