Relationships Between Conscientiousness and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms: Evidence from a Bi-Factor Model

Accumulating evidence suggests that conscientiousness involves both adaptive and maladaptive aspects. However, the specific facets that constitute these contrasting aspects remain insufficiently understood. To address this gap, the present study examines the specific relationships between facets of conscientiousness and obsessive-compulsive (OC) symptoms. Utilizing a bi-factor model, we investigated how domain-level conscientiousness, and its facets relate to OC symptoms in two distinct samples: 388 college students (mean age = 20.64 ± 1.68 years) and 381 individuals from the general population (mean age = 25.19 ± 2.7 years). Across both groups, competence and dutifulness showed negative associations with OC symptoms (rs ranging from -.61 to -.19), whereas achievement-striving and orderliness exhibited a positive correlation with these symptoms (rs ranging from .18 to .30). Interestingly, domain-level conscientiousness was negatively associated with OC symptoms in college students but positively associated with these symptoms in the general population. Additionally, cautiousness demonstrated a positive association with OC symptoms in the general population. These findings underscore the significance of considering specific facets of conscientiousness to understand its dual nature and relationships with OC symptoms. By refining our understanding of these associations, this study contributes to the development of more targeted interventions for individuals with OC symptoms.