Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) is a Personality Disorder that falls under the Cluster-C sub-category of personality disorders as given by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM). The personality types in this cluster are described as anxious or fearful.
OCPD is different from the more well-known Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). The key difference lies in the word ‘personality, implying that the former is a more stable and pervasive disorder in comparison to the latter. Obsessive-compulsive disorder deals with intrusive thoughts which distress the individual, while OCPD is a cluster of traits of an individual.
OCPD is characterized by maladaptive personality traits such as the excessive need for control, perfectionism, prioritizing work above relationships, and leisure activities. Individuals with this personality disorder are very rigid and find it very difficult to adjust and empathize with others. The use of the word ‘disorder’ here is to highlight the mental stress that both the individual and the people around them go through due to these traits (Butcher et al., 2014, p. 327). Individuals with OCPD pay high attention to detail, are prone to re-repeating tasks, and have poor time-management skills, often inconveniencing others.
Symptoms
A diagnosis of OCPD is given if a minimum of four out of the eight given symptoms is seen.
1. Is often preoccupied with details, rules, or order to the point where the motive of the task is lost.
2. High need for perfectionism that interferes with task completion
3. Prefers work over leisure activities and relationships.
4. Over-conscientious about rules, morals, and ethics
5. Hoarding objects of non-sentimental value
6. Prefers not to delegate tasks or work with others
7. Miserly (hoarding money)
8. Shows Rigidity and Stubbornness
Treatment
Though there is no conclusive evidence about their effectiveness, the following therapies are used to treat OCPD.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is the most recommended treatment method for OCPD. The client is made aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behavior that is causing the distress. Therapists then focus on challenging these maladaptive cognitions of the individual and restructuring them, which results in a behavior change.
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy is another recommended for the treatment of personality disorders. This therapy method focuses on exploring conscious and unconscious thoughts or feelings and understanding them. It allows individuals to become more aware of how their pasts have influenced the present and make better choices in the future.
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About the Author.
Namita Sankar is a psychologist at MindTribe.in. You can learn more about her by clicking here
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of MindTribe.in, the Founders, or management team.
Acknowledgement: All images used are open source and from Unsplash.