repetition-compulsion

rep·e·ti·tion-com·pul·sion

(rep'ĕ-tish'ŭn-kŏm-pŭl'shŭn), In psychoanalysis, the tendency to repeat earlier experiences or actions, in an unconscious effort to achieve belated mastery over them; a morbid need to repeat a particular behavior such as handwashing or repeated checking to see whether the door is locked.

rep·e·ti·tion-com·pul·sion

(rep'ĕ-tish'ŭn-kŏm-pŭl'shŭn) psychoanalysis The tendency to repeat earlier experiences or actions in an unconscious effort to achieve belated mastery over them; a morbid need to repeat a particular behavior, such as handwashing or checking to see whether the door is locked.
See: obsessive-compulsive disorder