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Exploring the Neural Correlates of Cognitive Reappraisal in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Using Task-based Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder and romantic functioning.

Richard D Abbey¹, James R Clopton, Joy D Humphreys

¹Department of Psychology, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409-2051, USA.

Journal of Clinical Psychology

|November 1, 2007

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) impacts romantic relationships, with higher obsession severity linked to less intimacy and satisfaction. However, some compulsive behaviors showed positive relationship correlations, suggesting complex dynamics.

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Area of Science:

Psychology
Clinical Psychology
Relationship Science

Background:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
Understanding the impact of OCD on interpersonal relationships, particularly romantic partnerships, is crucial for comprehensive treatment.
Previous research has explored various aspects of OCD, but its specific effects on relationship dynamics require further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the relationship between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms and key aspects of romantic relationships.
To examine correlations between OCD severity, intimacy, self-disclosure, relationship satisfaction, and relationship worry.
To explore the differential impact of obsessions versus compulsive behaviors on relationship variables.

Main Methods:

Cross-sectional study design involving 64 participants with OCD recruited from a national conference.
Utilized self-report measures to assess OCD symptoms, depressive symptoms, intimacy, self-disclosure, relationship satisfaction, and relationship worry.
Employed correlational analyses to determine the statistical relationships between variables.

Main Results:

Higher severity of obsessions was significantly negatively correlated with intimacy, relationship satisfaction, and self-disclosure.
Certain compulsive behaviors, specifically washing and neutralizing, demonstrated positive correlations with relationship satisfaction and intimacy.
Fears of contamination related to sexual activity were positively associated with overall OCD symptom severity.

Conclusions:

OCD symptom severity, particularly obsessions, can detrimentally affect the quality of romantic relationships.
Specific compulsive behaviors may have a complex or even beneficial association with relationship functioning in individuals with OCD.
Findings highlight the need for tailored therapeutic interventions addressing both OCD symptoms and relationship challenges.