Which of the following symptoms is common in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

In obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), individuals often experience specific patterns of thoughts and behaviors, one of which involves a strong need for order, symmetry, or perfection. The symptom of needing perfect alignment or symmetry in ordering objects reflects the compulsive behaviors that characterize OCD. This can manifest as repeatedly arranging items in a particular way or ensuring that everything is symmetrical, as individuals with OCD often feel a sense of anxiety or distress if these standards are not met.

The answer effectively highlights a core aspect of OCD, where the compulsions are not only about routine but also about an underlying anxiety related to symmetry or perfectionism. These behaviors serve as attempts to alleviate the obsessive thoughts that the person may experience. The other options describe symptoms or behaviors that do not align specifically with the hallmark features of OCD.