Compulsive refers to an irresistible urge or impulse, often accompanied by a sense of necessity. It can be used to describe behavior that is repetitive and habitual, driven by an inner need or drive, rather than being a conscious decision. In psychology, compulsive behaviors are those that are performed in response to an obsession or anxiety, as a way of coping with or avoiding emotional distress. These actions can be ritualistic and may not necessarily be rational or logical, but the person feels driven to perform them regardless. Compulsiveness is often associated with disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) where a person experiences intrusive thoughts or urges that they feel compelled to act upon through repetitive behaviors or rituals.