A compulsion is an irresistible urge to take a certain action, especially one that is irrational or even unwanted. We tend to think of compulsions in terms of a serious condition, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or substance abuse, but the truth is that we're assailed by strong urges every day. Your character will face them, too, such as the urge to cover up a mistake, cheat on their diet, reward themselves with a coveted item, or rescue a loved one from the consequences of their actions. This entry addresses a range of possibilities for characters wrestling with urges and compulsions.

Shaking the head (as if to an internal no or don't do it)
The face reddening
Rubbing the back of the neck
Rolling the shoulders or neck to release tension
A gaze that bounces from place to place
Restless limbs
Pacing
Dilated pupils
Avoiding eye contact with others
Rapid blinking
Adjusting their clothing
Dragging the hands through the hair
Intense breathing
Filling the cheeks with air, holding it in, and then finally releasing a breath
Verbalizing or reasoning it through under the breath: Should I? or I have to
Laughter with an edge
Swallowing often
Hands that tremble or shake
Flapping the hands
Abruptly turning on their heels