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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 18, 2026

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

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

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Interpersonal ambivalence in obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Steffen Moritz¹, Helen Niemeyer, Birgit Hottenrott

¹University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Germany.

Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy

|September 14, 2012

Summary

Patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) exhibit significant interpersonal ambivalence, displaying both exaggerated pro-social attitudes and latent aggression. This highlights a complex interplay of conflicting social behaviors in OCD.

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Area of Science:

Psychiatry
Psychology
Social Sciences

Background:

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) research shows controversy regarding patients' social attitudes, with some studies highlighting pro-social tendencies and others focusing on anti-social traits.
Previous research suggests a coexistence of exaggerated pro-social attitudes (e.g., inflated responsibility) and latent aggression in OCD, potentially serving as a coping mechanism against negative interpersonal feelings.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate a shortened version of the Responsibility and Interpersonal Behaviours and Attitudes Questionnaire (RIBAQ-R).
To assess interpersonal ambivalence in individuals with OCD.

Main Methods:

The RIBAQ-R was administered to 34 participants with OCD and 34 healthy controls.
The questionnaire measures pro-social and anti-social interpersonal attitudes across three subscales.

Main Results:

OCD patients showed higher scores for both exaggerated pro-social attitudes and anti-social traits (aggression, suspiciousness/distrust).
Marked interpersonal ambivalence was observed in 59% of OCD patients compared to 12% of healthy controls.

Conclusions:

The study confirms significant interpersonal ambivalence in individuals with OCD.
Further research is needed to understand the dynamics and causality of these opposing interpersonal styles.
Interventions focusing on normalization and social competence training may aid in managing anger expression and social conflict in OCD patients.