Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

A Computer-Based Platform for Aiding Clinicians in Eating Disorder Analysis and Diagnosis
Published on: May 10, 2022
The relation among perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder in
Katherine A Halmi1, Federica Tozzi, Laura M Thornton
1New York Presbyterian Hospital-Westchester Division, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, White Plains, New York, USA.
Objective:
Perfectionism and obsessionality are core features of eating disorders (ED), yet the nature of their relation remains unknown. Understanding the relation between these traits may enhance our ability to identify relevant behavioral endophenotypes for ED.
Method:
Six-hundred seven individuals with anorexia and bulimia nervosa from the International Price Foundation Genetic Study were assessed for perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Results:
No differences were found across ED subtypes in the prevalence of OCPD and OCD, nor with the association between OCD and OCPD. Perfectionism scores were highest in individuals with OCPD whether alone or in combination with OCD.
Conclusion:
Perfectionism appears to be more closely associated with obsessive-compulsive personality symptoms rather than OCD. The pairing of perfectionism with OCPD may be a relevant core behavioral feature underlying vulnerability to ED.
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