From compulsivity to compulsion: the neural basis of compulsive disorders

Abstract

Compulsive behaviour, an apparently irrational perseveration in often maladaptive acts, is a potential transdiagnostic symptom of several neuropsychiatric disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder and addiction, and may reflect the severe manifestation of a dimensional trait termed compulsivity. In this Review, we examine the psychological basis of compulsions and compulsivity and their underlying neural circuitry using evidence from human neuroimaging and animal models. Several main elements of this circuitry are identified, focused on fronto-striatal systems implicated in goal-directed behaviour and habits. These systems include the orbitofrontal, prefrontal, anterior cingulate and insular cortices and their connections with the basal ganglia as well as sensoriomotor and parietal cortices and cerebellum. We also consider the implications for future classification of impulsive–compulsive disorders and their treatment. Pathological compulsive behaviour is a potential transdiagnostic symptom of several neuropsychiatric disorders. In this Review, Robbins et al. examine the psychological basis of compulsions and compulsivity and their underlying neural circuitry, focused on fronto-striatal systems implicated in goal-directed behaviour and habits.