What Is OCPD?
People with OCPC (Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder) need things to be perfect and in order. They usually make a lot of lists, organize with schedules, and have rules in place to feel that they are in control. They present as rigid and stubborn and have difficulties making decisions.
OCD Vs. OCPD
This personality disorder is often confused with the Anxiety Disorder of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), due to its similar name. However, they are fundamentally different.
Those who suffer from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (Anxiety disorder) experience unwanted and intrusive thoughts and feel the urge to do things in order to decrease their anxiety and find some relief. Usually, after these acts (the compulsions), there is a sense of relief. People with OCD know that these behaviours are not “normal” but they do them only to soothe their anxiety and not as part of their daily functioning.
In those with OCPD (Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder), the thoughts of perfection are not unwanted, rather, they are interpreted as accurate and considered the right way to do things. They incorporate these meticulous ways as part of their “normal” way of working or doing things at home.
Symptoms Of OCPD
Signs of OCPD include an inability to throw away belongings, even those lacking any value or importance. People with this personality disorder tend to be frugal, inflexible and preoccupied with sticking to their morals, values, and ethics. They tend to present themselves neatly groomed with clean and proper clothing. They may speak in a monotone voice and express very few emotions. People with OCPD fear losing control over themselves, situations and others.
Treatment For OCPD
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy focuses on teaching the client to recognize thinking mistakes and why they are maladaptive. Clients learn strategies to facilitate a more enjoyable lifestyle where they are not preoccupied with worries of losing control, the stress of perfectionism, and the inability to complete a task.