The Role of Perfectionism in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Abstract

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and serious disorder, that results in functional impairments and negative life outcomes. Investigating the etiological model of OCD is a vital task to provide treatment implications. Empirical evidence suggests that perfectionism plays a key role in the development, maintenance, and treatment of OCD. The aim of this paper is to review past studies exploring the relationship between perfectionism and OCD and give some future directions in this area. Based on the findings of past research, it remains unclear how perfectionism plays a role in OCD. Although numerous evidence suggests that perfectionism is significantly correlated with OCD, there is evidence reporting some factors mediating this relationship. As a matter of fact, more evidence is needed in this area. In the future, researchers should consider testing the causality of this relationship using experimental designs and also take mediators into account in their study to have a more comprehensive understanding of the role of perfectionism in OCD, which is helpful to provide practical implications in treatments as well.

Romantic relationship obsessive-compulsive doubts, perfectionism, and DSM-5 personality traits in LGB people: a comparison with heterosexual individuals

“…As a consequence of such biases, the individual could repeatedly seek reassurance from the partner or others, check specific relationship-oriented behaviors, or avoid situations that could determine doubt, causing a significant strain on the relationship ( Doron et al, 2012a , 2013 ). In particular, personality traits characterized by perfectionism, strongly associated with general obsessive-compulsive symptoms ( Obsessive Compulsive Cognitions Working Group, 2001 , 2005 ; Pozza et al, 2019 ; Miegel et al, 2020 ; Lu, 2022 ), could represent a relevant predisposing factor for the development of excessive doubts and preoccupations toward one’s partner and/or relationship regarding the “adequacy of the couple” or the physical characteristics or the personality of one’s partner ( Lazarov et al, 2010 ).…”