Investigating the Link Between Overcontrolled Traits and Functional Impairment: Determining Relations and...

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Personality Disorders

Background:

• Dimensional personality models view pathology as variants of general traits.
• Overcontrol/compulsivity exists on a spectrum of conscientiousness, related to Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD).
• The Five-Factor Obsessive Compulsive Inventory (FFOCI) assesses overcontrol traits relevant to OCPD.

Purpose of the Study:

• Establish normative values and cut points for the FFOCI.
• Determine functional outcomes associated with FFOCI scores.
• Provide interpretive guidelines for clinicians.

Main Methods:

• A 500-person sample, matched to the 2020 U.S. Census, was used.
• FFOCI T-score bins were analyzed for connections to functional outcomes (e.g., well-being, OCPD symptoms).
• Regression and mean comparisons were employed.

Main Results:

• Normative values and provisional cut points for FFOCI scales were determined.
• Specific FFOCI score ranges were linked to functional impairments.
• Problematic outcomes were more likely at higher FFOCI scores.

Conclusions:

• Initial interpretive guidelines for the FFOCI were established.
• Scores above 65 on the FFOCI suggest overcontrol aspects requiring therapeutic attention.
• This aids clinicians in identifying and addressing problematic overcontrol in OCPD.