Everyone checks themselves sometimes. Did you really turn off that light? Is that door really locked? It is very normal to walk back to check, even though you actually know that you have done it. Things become different when it becomes compulsive, you walk back not once but 5 times and, for example, you open and close the door again. If the days are dominated by compulsive actions, there could be a compulsive disorder.
General
Obsessive compulsive disorder, also called obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) or obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), is often confused with Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). However, the latter is a personality disorder according to the DSM-IV and an obsessive-compulsive disorder is one of the anxiety disorders. OCD/OCD is characterized by compulsive actions that are constantly repeated. This can range from repeatedly washing hands, straightening objects or saying certain words. They may suffer from compulsions, obsessive thoughts or a combination of these.
A well-known example of an obsessive-compulsive disorder is obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder occurs in 150,000 Dutch people, equally often in men and women, and occurs in childhood.
Characteristics
- wants to arrange everything in life perfectly
- cannot enjoy anything without any worries
- has a disturbed daily routine due to constant compulsions
- has disturbed social activities due to constant compulsions
Relationships with other people
A compulsive personality is usually responsible and reliable. However, their compulsive thinking and/or acting can influence social life to such an extent that there is a risk of social isolation and loneliness. They are serious rather than spontaneous.
They are very effective in formal and public roles, but struggle in more intimate and domestic settings. They focus less on the whole than on the details.
Fear of loss of control can play a role in intimate relationships. For example, when their need for security suddenly surfaces, while they are so keen on their independence. They also sometimes become confused by intense feelings of anger or feel deprived. These people are capable of love, but have difficulty expressing tenderness without shame or fear.
Assistance
Compulsive personalities can usually be helped therapeutically. Treatment with medication and behavioral therapy is successful in 30-50% of cases. In particular, (cognitive) behavioral therapy is important for ‘unlearning’ the compulsive actions. The patient is taught to resist the compulsions and to cope with the resulting increase in anxiety.