Compulsion is a strong, often irresistible urge to do something, even if you know it may not be wise. It can also mean being forced to act by rules, threats, or pressure.
From Latin 'compellere' ('to drive together, force') via Late Latin 'compulsiō' and Old French. The core idea is being 'driven' or 'pushed' into action.
A compulsion can feel like your brain has grabbed the steering wheel from you—you’re watching yourself act, even when you don’t fully want to. This is why some psychological disorders are called 'compulsive': the person isn’t simply choosing; they feel pushed.
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